Authority: High Court of Judicature at Patna
Order Date: 29-09-2026
Case Overview
- Petitioner: Vijendra Rai, son of Rajnath Rai, resident of Tiloth, Bhojpur, claims title to 0.85 acre (Survey Plot No. 1731) purchased on 19-12-1967 from Bir Bahadur Bharti; inherited share after death of Jagdish Rai in 2014; possession and mutation in his name; rent receipts issued.
- Respondents: State of Bihar, Circle Officer Piro, Assistant Electric Engineer, South Bihar Power Distribution Company Limited, Land Acquisition Officer, Additional Chief Secretary Revenue and Land Reforms.
- Petitioner alleges land was acquired without notice, without compensation, and construction started by Electricity Department.
- Respondents contend land was acquired under Land Acquisition Act 1894 in 1977 for a 33/11 KV sub‑station (Declaration No. 1003 D.L.A. Electric 27/77), award of Rs 18,300.30 to Bir Bahadur Bharti, balance Rs 37,181 deposited on 12-07-1979; title suits dismissed in 2003, possession handed to Electricity Department.
Final Outcome
- Court held the petition barred by delay and laches, citing the doctrine that equity aids the vigilant and Supreme Court precedent (Union of India v. M.K. Sarkar).
- Writ petition dismissed with costs; no compensation ordered; land remains with Electricity Department for public purpose.
Topics: Land Acquisition, Delay & Laches