Supreme Court Awards Compensation in 30-Year Land Dispute

The Supreme Court of India awarded Rs 70 lakh as compensation to private landowners after a 30-year legal battle with the Andhra Pradesh government over land occupation. The court criticized state authorities for inadequate responses to legal notices and confirmed monetary compensation as restoration was unfeasible.

In an important verdict, the Supreme Court of India has ordered the Andhra Pradesh government to compensate private landowners with Rs 70 lakh following a protracted legal struggle spanning nearly 30 years. The dispute centered around over 3.34 acres of land in the Kurnool district.

The apex court reprimanded state authorities for their dismissive attitude towards the legal notices issued in such land disputes. Although the court acknowledged the rightful claim of the private landowners, it deemed land restoration impractical due to the completion of construction decades ago.

In its 95-page judgment, the top court underscored the responsibility of public authorities to respond earnestly to statutory notices, thus avoiding unnecessary citizen litigation. The compensation is to be paid within three months, marking a significant development in resolving such disputes effectively.

(With inputs from agencies.)