Major Blow to Karnal Farmers: 84 Land Cases Dismissed, Compensation Demands Rejected

In a significant setback for farmers in Karnal, 84 pending cases concerning compensation for land acquired for national highway projects have been dismissed. Deputy Commissioner Uttam Singh made the decision, rejecting farmers’ demands for higher compensation, damages for land division, and interest on delayed payments. This move has caused considerable distress to the affected landowners.

Land Acquisition for National Highways

The Central Government acquired hundreds of acres of farmland in several Karnal villages in 2015. This land was needed for the construction and widening of a national highway. The acquisition followed a gazette notification.

Initial Compensation Award

The competent authority, also known as the Land Acquisition officer and District Revenue Officer in Karnal, announced an award in 2018. This award set the compensation for the acquired land based on the collector rate. However, many landowners were unhappy with the amount offered.

Farmers’ Grievances and Legal Challenges

Farmers challenged the 2018 award. They filed petitions seeking several things:

• Increased compensation for their land.
• Damages because their land was split into two parts.
• Interest on compensation payments that were delayed for years.

These cases remained pending for a long time.

High Court Directive and Dismissal of Cases

The Punjab and Haryana High Court had previously ordered the resolution of all land compensation cases related to national highways. These cases, filed in Punjab and Haryana up to the year 2000, were to be decided by February 28. On February 26, Deputy Commissioner and Arbitrator Uttam Singh dismissed the 84 pending cases in Karnal district.

Legal Expert’s Reaction

Advocate Chaudhary Shakti Singh, an expert in land acquisition matters, criticized the decision. He stated that the Deputy Commissioner’s ruling is neither just nor fair. He believes it goes against the basic principles of natural justice. Mr. Singh also noted that the legal rules were not correctly applied in the decision.

Recourse for Affected Farmers

Farmers who disagree with this dismissal have legal options. They can challenge the Deputy Commissioner’s decision. This involves filing an objection petition in the district court. They must do this within the time limit set by the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.