SPL. LAND ACQN. OFFICER vs P.M. MALLAPPA

The Supreme Court addressed the enhancement of compensation under the Land Acquisition Act, specifically Section 4(1) and Section 18. The Court held that the High Court erred in increasing the compensation to Rs. 12/- per sq. yd. (Rs. 58,000/- per acre) for dry land, emphasizing that compensation should reflect the land's value as of the notification date, not subsequent developments. Consequently, the Court allowed the appeals, set aside the High Court's judgment, and confirmed the reference Court's award of Rs. 38,000/- per acre.