BHAG SINGH & ORS. vs UNION TERRITORY OF CHANDIGARH, THROUGH THE LAND ACQUISITION

The Supreme Court held that the Land Acquisition (Amendment) Act, 1984, specifically Sections 15(b) and 18(a), mandates an increase in solatium from 15% to 30% and interest from 6% to 9% for awards made after April 30, 1982. The Court ruled that restricting compensation to the amount of court-fee paid by claimants is not legally valid, thereby entitling claimants to the enhanced compensation irrespective of court-fee payment. The judgment clarified the applicability of the amended provisions to awards made post the specified date, ensuring fair compensation for land acquisition.