STATE OF KARNATAKA vs LAXUMAN

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of Section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, particularly regarding the application for condonation of delay under Section 18(3)(b). The Court held that the application for reference must be made within three years of the expiry of the initial 90-day period, and that Section 5 of the Limitation Act applies to such applications. The Court ultimately upheld the High Court's decision to condone the delay, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to procedural timelines while ensuring justice is served.