Telangana HC grants govt 12 weeks to clear Rs 51.35 cr land acquisition compensation dues

By Our Legal Correspondent

Hyderabad: Justice N.V. Shravan Kumar of the Telangana High Court on Wednesday granted the State government 12 weeks to clear Rs 51.35 crore towards compensation payable to landowners whose lands were acquired for government projects in Narayanpet district, after Principal Secretary, Finance Department, Sandeep Kumar Sultania, personally appeared before the Court and assured that the payments would be taken up on priority and cleared at the earliest.

The judge was dealing with a batch of contempt petitions relating to non-payment of compensation despite court orders. During the hearing, Principal Secretary, Finance Department, Sandeep Kumar Sultania, who appeared virtually, informed the court that the government had issued payment tokens for over Rs 40,000 crore payable to various categories, including landowners whose properties were acquired for public projects, but was not in a position to release the amounts immediately.

“Paying compensation for lands acquired is the top priority. But, even if we desire (to pay), I am not in a position to pay (do so). That is my inability,” Sultania submitted.

He assured the court that land acquisition compensation matters would be taken up on priority and cleared at the earliest, while seeking six months’ time. The judge, however, granted 12 weeks as a final opportunity to clear the pending compensation of Rs 51.35 crore and cautioned the officer, “See that you keep (up) your promise.”

Earlier, the judge expressed strong displeasure over Sultania’s absence and the application filed seeking exemption from personal appearance without valid reasons.

The judge observed that the approach of officials in contempt matters appeared casual and indicated that “they have scant respect to (for) the court.”

“Courts cannot be casual in contempt cases, particularly while dealing with matters involving payment of compensation to land losers,” the judge observed.

The judge further remarked that citizens were being forced to approach courts due to the careless attitude of officials towards their grievances and that “you (officials) display the same attitude even in courts.”

When Sultania appeared before the court later in the evening, he explained the government’s financial difficulties in clearing payments due to various categories. The judge pointed out that despite repeated time-bound assurances, there had been inordinate delays and non-compliance with court orders.

“We are not telling you how to pay, but are worried about the citizens’ rights and also (the) increasing pendency in courts due to such matters,” the judge observed.

Apart from granting 12 weeks to clear the compensation, the judge directed the government to file a comprehensive additional affidavit detailing the compensation paid for lands acquired for various purposes and specifying the time required to clear the remaining payments. The matters were adjourned for further hearing.