In a long-standing legal battle, the Bombay High Court decided in favor of the Sawant family, ordering payment for land taken by the Baramati Municipal Council in Pune, Maharashtra. This decision, dated December 3, 2025, ends a 23-year fight for justice.
Back in 1991, the Baramati Municipal Council used a piece of land owned by the Sawant family to build a road. Despite promises, the family never received fair payment. The land, measuring 1344.94 square meters, is located in Baramati, Pune.
The Sawant family, represented by Mr. Ashutosh Kulkarni, argued that their rights under the law were violated. The law ensures no one loses property without proper payment. Despite the land being used since 1991, the family was offered just Re. 1, which they rightfully challenged.
"The petitioners are clearly entitled to just and fair payment for losing the use of their land."
The council claimed that rules allowed them to pay only Re. 1. However, the court, led by Judges Manish Pitale and Manjusha Deshpande, rejected this, citing Supreme Court examples. They emphasized the need for fair payment, dismissing the council’s reliance on outdated rules.
The court ordered the municipal council to start the process of paying for the land under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. This ensures the Sawant family will finally receive the market value for their land within a year.
The council's request to delay the order was denied, acknowledging the family's decades-long struggle. The judges were firm in their decision, ensuring the Sawant family receives justice without further postponement.
The court ruled that the Sawant family should be paid the market value for their land, bringing their long fight for fair treatment to a successful conclusion.
