BSNL Gets Stay on Goa Encroachment Action

Authority: High Court of Bombay at Goa

Order Date: 5th October 2026

Case Overview

• Petitioners: Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) represented by authorized representative Uttam Yaligaar.
• Respondents: The Collector, North and others.
• On 04‑02‑2026, Respondent No.2 issued a Show Cause Notice (Case No. DYC/LND/ENC/10/2026/509) under Section 6 of the Goa Land (Prohibition of Construction) Act, 1995, alleging that BSNL was encroaching on Government of Goa land.
• BSNL filed a detailed reply on 18‑02‑2026 and a preliminary objection on 26‑05‑2026, contending that Respondent No.2 lacked jurisdiction to determine BSNL’s rights.
• BSNL sought a limited prayer that Respondent No.2 refrain from any arbitrary action, including demarcation and land survey, pending a decision on the Show Cause Notice.
• The Additional Government Advocate for Respondent No.2 stated that the proceedings would be concluded within one month from the date of the hearing, after giving BSNL an opportunity to be heard.

Final Outcome

• The writ petition (WP 1185 of 2026) is disposed.
• The Court noted that if BSNL suffers any adverse or coercive action during the pendency of the land dispute proceedings, it may approach the Court again.
• BSNL undertook to appear before Respondent No.2 on 08‑10‑2026 at 10:30 AM.

Topics: Land Encroachment, Telecommunications, Legal Relief