Supreme Court Validates Land Acquisition for Yamuna Expressway and Boosts Development Plans
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court has upheld the validity of land acquisition for the Yamuna Expressway and its adjoining areas in Gautam Budh Nagar, Uttar Pradesh. The verdict puts an end to a long-standing conflict over the application of urgency provisions under the Land Acquisition Act, 1894.
An Emphasis on Development
The bench, comprising Justices B R Gavai and Sandeep Mehta, dismissed the appeals made by landowners, while allowing the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority’s cross-appeals. Justice Mehta, in a 49-page verdict, emphasized the importance of the acquisition in the development of the expressway and its surrounding regions, which serve unified public-interest objectives.
Key Observations by the Court
1. Integrated Development: The Supreme Court ruled that the land acquisition is an integral part of the integrated development plan for the Yamuna Expressway, leading to overall regional growth.
2. Urgency Clause Justified: The Court justified the application of urgency provisions under sections 171 and 174 of the Land Acquisition Act, citing the need for rapid development and to prevent unauthorized encroachments.
3. Uniform Compensation: The bench upheld the Allahabad High Court’s decision, which awarded 64.7% enhanced compensation to the landowners. The Court stated that this compensation already provides a “No Litigation Bonus” and rejected further enhancements to ensure fairness among all affected landowners.
Addressing Conflicting Rulings
The Supreme Court also addressed conflicting rulings by the Allahabad High Court:
1. It affirmed the Kamal Sharma case, which upheld the land acquisition and granted enhanced compensation.
2. It invalidated the Shyoraj Singh case, which had earlier quashed the land acquisition, calling it a judgment made “per-incuriam” due to the arbitrary application of the urgency clause.
A Positive Outlook for Future Development
With this verdict, the disputes surrounding the 2009 land acquisitions have finally been resolved, clearing the path for the continued development of the Yamuna Expressway. The Yamuna Expressway is a critical infrastructure project, connecting the economic hubs of the region. This decision will invigorate plans for enhancing connectivity, driving economic growth, and spurring overall infrastructural development in and around the area.
The Supreme Court’s ruling on the validity of the land acquisition for the Yamuna Expressway marks a significant milestone in the development and progress of Uttar Pradesh. It provides a legal framework to address similar situations in the future, ensuring transparency and fairness in land acquisition processes. This decision also serves as an encouragement for other infrastructure projects across the country, bolstering the government’s commitment to comprehensive development and public welfare.
