3.1. In the counter, it is alleged the lands at Elavarasan Patty Village was acquired in the year 1957 and up to 1977, that besides compensation to the lands acquired, additional package too was provided by way of rehabilitation. Besides for all those who have lost land but accepted employment in Neyveli Lignite Corporation in 1950 and 1960 have also given been employment. In the early days of acquisition, till about 1977, since the project was in its infancy, the demand for employment from the local population was less. As a result, whoever among the landowners who was interested in taking employment in the NLC for themselves or for their dependents, were granted employment. Gradually when the demand for employment increased and since the requirement for additional non-technical hands also decreased, it became necessary to formulate a scheme, so as to limit the employment opportunities only to those who are deserving and who fulfill the norms as determined in consultation with the Government of Tamil Nadu and local elected representatives. Accordingly, regular schemes came to be introduced from about 1977-80 onwards. Prior to 1977, there were no specific scheme for providing employment to land oustees, because the demand was not significant and there was no need for any scheme as such.
