Bombay High Court: Farmers' Compensation Increased in Latur Land Case

Summary: Farmers in Latur, Maharashtra, have been fighting for fair payment after their land was taken for a water storage project. The court has now decided to slightly increase the payment, but both sides are still not completely happy.

Background: Land Takeover in Babhalgaon

The case is about the government taking over land in Babhalgaon, Latur, to build a water storage area called Percolation Tank No. 2. The landowners, including Pandurang Ganpati Kadam and others, thought the payment offered was too low. They wanted Rs. 250 per square foot, but the court initially gave them Rs. 125 per square foot.

The Court's Decision: A Partial Win

The High Court, with judges Nitin B. Suryawanshi and Sandipkumar C. More, looked at the case again. They decided to raise the payment to Rs. 165 per square foot. This decision was based on previous land sales and decisions in the area.

"The court has now decided on Rs. 165 per square foot, which seems fair considering the circumstances."

Arguments from Both Sides

• Farmers' Perspective: The farmers, led by Pandurang Ganpati Kadam, argued that their lands were near important places and had high potential. They pointed out nearby facilities like colleges, a police training center, and health centers. They believed their land was undervalued.

• State's Stand: The State of Maharashtra, represented by the Collector of Latur, thought the payment was already too high. They argued for a reduction, saying that the land's location and purpose did not justify the higher rates.

Key Evidence: Sale Instances and Previous Decisions

Farmers presented evidence of nearby land sales showing higher rates. They also mentioned previous decisions where similar lands received more payment. However, the court found some differences in location and purpose, leading to the adjusted rate.

Final Order: What Happens Next?

The court ordered the State to pay the increased amount with interest from the date of the award. The farmers will also receive additional amounts as extra compensation and interest on the original payment.

• Interest Rates: 9% per year for the first year, then 15% until payment.
• Extra Compensation: An additional 30% on the increased payment.

Summary of the Verdict

The court's decision increased the payment to Rs. 165 per square foot with additional interest and extra compensation, but it was not the full amount the farmers wanted. The State's request to lower the payment was rejected, leaving both parties with mixed feelings.