Bombay High Court

Bombay HC: Raigad Land Compensation Dispute Hinges on Heir Legitimacy

Updated
Feb 6, 2026 11:18 PM
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Summary: A legal struggle unfolds over land compensation in Raigad, Maharashtra. Ramubai Krushna Patil, along with other claimants, challenges the distribution of compensation for acquired land. The case revolves around family ties, determining who is a legal heir, and rightful ownership.

Background of the Case

In a case heard by the Bombay High Court, Ramubai Krushna Patil contested the distribution of compensation for land acquired in Raigad district. The land, owned by her father Pandu @ Pandurang Mangalya Patil and others, was acquired for the Navi-Mumbai Project back in 1986. Compensation was awarded in 2016, but disputes arose over who should receive it.

The Land Acquisition and Compensation

  • Land Details: The land in question is located in Mauje Bokadvira, Taluka Uran, District Raigad.
  • Acquisition Date: Notification issued on 24th September 1986.
  • Compensation Awarded: On 18th July 2016, Rs. 20,71,060 was awarded, with interest, for LAR No. 222/2014.

The Family Dispute

  • Claimants: Ramubai and other family members, including respondents like Kailas Ramesh Patil and Hemlata Vinod Thakur, were involved.
  • Controversy: Respondents claimed Ramubai was not the daughter of Pandu @ Pandurang Patil, challenging her right to the compensation.

"The petitioner was not born to her mother out of the marriage with late Pandu @ Pandurang Patil."

Court Proceedings

  • Initial Court's Decision: Initially, the court ordered the compensation to be withheld until the rightful heirs were determined by another court.
  • Appeal: Ramubai appealed, arguing her legitimate claim as Pandu's daughter. The court noted her consistent recognition as an heir in previous legal documents.

Legal Arguments

  • Ramubai's Stand: Her lawyer argued that she had been recognized as Pandu's daughter in multiple legal proceedings, including applications for certificates proving who the heirs are.
  • Respondents' Argument: They claimed she was born from a previous marriage of her mother and was not entitled to the compensation.

The Court's Judgment

On 29th January 2026, Judge N. J. Jamadar ruled in favor of Ramubai, allowing her to receive 50% of the compensation, subject to certain conditions like providing indemnity bonds and bank guarantees.

"The petitions stand allowed. The impugned orders stand quashed and set aside."

Verdict Summary

The court decided in favor of Ramubai, granting her 50% of the compensation after confirming her status as a legal heir, provided she meets certain conditions.