Bombay HC: Vaijapur Farmers Win Higher Land Compensation for Watered Lands

Summary: A group of farmers from Vaijapur are fighting for fair payment for their land. The Bombay High Court at Aurangabad has decided if they should get more money than initially offered, especially for improvements like wells and trees.

Background of the Case

Farmers Want More Money

Several farmers, including Pandurang Devrao Shete, have asked for more money from the Sub-Divisional Officer cum Land Acquisition Officer in Vaijapur. They want more cash for their land, which was taken by the government. The farmers say their lands should be classified as having water for farming, not dry, which would increase their payment.

Key Events and Dates

Initial Notification and Offers

• The first notice was given on December 3, 1986.
• The offer was made on November 22, 1990, offering Rs. 370 per R, without extra money for wells, buildings, or trees.

First Offer

• On June 25, 2015, a court set rates at Rs. 1,500 per R for dry land and Rs. 2,250 per R for land with water.

Recent Developments

• On September 11, 2018, the Collector set rates between Rs. 1,414 to Rs. 1,715 per R, treating all lands as dry.

Legal Arguments

Farmers' View

Mr. Anand Bhandari, speaking for the farmers, argued that they deserve more than the first offer rates. He stressed that the lands have water and contain valuable buildings and trees.

"The farmers should get more than the rates set in the first offer," said Mr. Bhandari.

Officials' View

Mr. Rahul Tambe and others argued that the law doesn't allow for changing the land type or payment for unlisted improvements.

"Reviewing under the law doesn't mean starting everything over," Mr. Tambe insisted.

Court's Decision

Ruling on February 27, 2026

Justice Shailesh P. Brahme decided that:

• Farmers in Group I should get Rs. 3,000 per R for lands with water.
• The court must look again at the payment for wells, trees, and buildings in Group II cases.

Summary of the Verdict

The court's decision means the farmers in Vaijapur will get fair payment. The ruling highlights the need to consider land improvements and types in payment decisions. The court will now reassess the cases to ensure the farmers are treated fairly.