MAHARAJ SINGH vs STATE OF UTTAR PRADESH & OTHERS

The Supreme Court held that under Section 117 of the U.P. Zamindari Abolition & Land Reforms Act, 1950, the State retains a legal interest in lands vested in Gaon Sabhas, allowing it to initiate ejectment actions. The Court clarified that while the Gaon Sabha manages the land, the State can resume possession, indicating that the vesting in the Gaon Sabha is limited to management and does not confer absolute ownership. The appeal by the State was upheld, affirming its locus standi as a 'person aggrieved' despite the Gaon Sabha not appealing the trial court's decision.