The Supreme Court of India has set aside a Karnataka High Court order that had reduced the compensation amount to be paid by NICE (Nandi Infrastructure Corridor Enterprises) for land acquisition. The apex court also dismissed a civil appeal filed by NICE challenging the determination of compensation payable for the schedule land at the rate of Rs 500 per square feet.
Background of the case
The dispute arose from land acquisition proceedings for the NICE project, a major infrastructure initiative in Karnataka. The Karnataka High Court had previously reduced the compensation amount, which was contested by the land owners. The matter reached the Supreme Court, where the owners argued for fair compensation based on market value.
Supreme Court's ruling
A bench of the Supreme Court observed that the High Court had erred in reducing the compensation without proper justification. The court reinstated the original compensation rate of Rs 500 per square feet, emphasizing that land owners must receive adequate compensation for their property. The court also dismissed NICE's appeal against the compensation rate, stating that the company must pay the determined amount.
The verdict is expected to impact similar land acquisition cases in Karnataka and across India, reinforcing the principle of fair compensation for landowners. Legal experts believe this decision will provide clarity on compensation calculations for infrastructure projects.
