The Madras High Court today directed the Dindigul Collector to settle within four weeks dues to a land-owner from whom 1.25 acres was acquired for construction of the collectorate in September 1985.
"Is this the way you cause distress to a person in whose land you have constructed your office and functioning?," Justice T Raja asked the Collector who appeared in person pursuant to a a court directive.
When the Collector said the file was pending with the Finance Secretary, the Judge wondered if he should implead him also in the case. The Collector then said they had already settled the amount at Rs 1,000 per cent and the balance of Rs 1,500 was pending with the Finance Secretary for clearance.
The Judge asked how long it would take to settle the amount, to which the Collector sought two months time. But the judge said he could give only one month and directed him to settle the dues in four weeks.
Petitioner Ganesa Perumal said his land was acquired in 1985. As the government fixed a paltry amount of Rs 1000 per cent, he moved the court. While the lower court said the rate was in tune with the market value, the High court directed the state to give him Rs 2,500 per cent.
The appeal against the High court order was dismissed by the Supreme Court.
Aggrieved by the apex court's order, the government filed another case in the High Court on the same issue.
The petitioner said while he did not object to the government's right to file the case, it was indifferent and was not willing to proceed. Hence, the court should direct the government to settle the compensation fixed by the Supreme Court along with solatium and interest.
He sought a direction to the administration to settle at least 50 per cent of the compensation amount.
