T.Solairajan v. The District Collector

BEFORE THE MADURAI BENCH OF MADRAS HIGH COURT DATED : 29.02.2024

CORAM

THE HONOURABLE MR.JUSTICE G.R.SWAMINATHAN T.Solairajan ... Petitioner Vs.

1.The District Collector , Madurai District, Madurai.

2.The Revenue Divisional Officer, Revenue Divisional Office, Madurai.

3.The Special Tahsildar (Land Acquisition), Madurai Kamaraj University Extension Scheme, Madurai West Taluk, Madurai.

... Respondents Prayer : Writ Petition filed under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, praying this Court to issue a Writ of Mandamus, directing the respondents to take necessary steps to return the land S.No. 25/A5 measuring 0.60 Acres, situated at Vadapazhanchi Village, Madurai, 1/4

which was acquired by the third respondent for the expansion of Madurai Kamaraj University to the petitioner and other legal heirs of his grandparents, by considering the petitioner's representation dated 14.12.2023.

For Petitioner : Mr.M.Prabhu For Respondents : Mr.D.Gandhi Raj Special Government Pleader

ORDER

Heard both sides.

2.This writ petition is hopelessly barred by laches. Even according to the petitioner, the acquisition proceedings had taken place way back in the year 1968. The land acquisition proceedings had taken place during the time of the petitioner's grandfather. At present, patta stands in the name of Madurai Kamaraj University.

3.When land is acquired under the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, it stands vested in the Government. In this case, the Government had also subsequently handed over the property to Kamaraj 2/4

University. In these circumstances, the respondents cannot reconvey the property. It is only the Government that can do so. The Government has not made as a party. I am not in a position to grant relief. 4.This writ petition is dismissed. There shall be no order as to costs.

29.02.2024 NCC : Yes/No Index : Yes / No Internet : Yes/ No MGA To 1.The District Collector , Madurai District, Madurai.

2.The Revenue Divisional Officer, Revenue Divisional Office, Madurai.

3.The Special Tahsildar (Land Acquisition), Madurai Kamaraj University Extension Scheme, Madurai West Taluk, Madurai.

3/4

G.R.SWAMINATHAN, J.

MGA 29.02.2024 4/4