Case brief
What is this about?
Batch of 13 writ petitions under Article 226 by DKT patta assignees of Inagaluru Village, Srikalahasti Mandal (assignments circa 1999) challenging cancellation/resumption of assignments vide Roc.(A)216/2010 dt.08.04.2010 and Roc.A/220/2014 dt.22.10.2014, with possession delivered to APIIC vide Roc.C/346/2015 dt.04.07.2015. Key issues: validity of service of resumption notices (affixture without attempted personal service); cancellation for non-cultivation within first three years after lapse of time; resumption subject to compensation. Held for petitioners: cancellations set aside; Government may resume only on payment of compensation per Mekala Pandu (2004(2) ALD 451). Precedents followed: Y.C. Venkata Subbamma (2021:APHC:16895), B. Mani (2011 (1) ALT 334), G. Munilakshmamma (1999 (1) ALT 617).
What did the court decide?
Writ petitions disposed of: cancellation of assignment pattas and resumption of lands set aside; liberty left to the Government to resume the lands (Ac.400.00 handed to the industrial unit) upon payment of compensation in accordance with LAO-cum-Revenue Divisional Officer v. Mekala Pandu; no order as to costs; pending miscellaneous petitions closed.