Citizens’ Research Collective on SEZ

Amidst the debate over acquiring agricultural lands for special economic zones (SEZs), the Supreme Court has held that the Government as a “sovereign power can acquire land for public purpose.”

The “public purpose” could include “industrial and other infrastructural developmental needs for the common good of the citizens,” a two-judge Bench of Justices C K Thakker and D K Jain said. It upheld the acquisition of vast tracts of agricultural and other lands by Andhra Pradesh Government in Ranga Reddy district adjoining Hyderabad city. Upholding the acquisition, the apex court said the State being a sovereign power under the doctrine of “Eminent Domain” as provided under the 1894 Land Acquisition has inherent rights to acquire land by paying suitable compensation to those displaced.

http://www.financialexpress.com/news/SC-favours-land-acquisition-for-public-purpose/358448/