M/S. STEEL AUTHORITY OF INDIA LTD. vs S.U.T.N.I. SANGAM .

The Supreme Court addressed the interpretation of Section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894, regarding the right to seek reference for enhanced compensation. The Court held that if an awardee accepts compensation without protest, they forfeit the right to request a reference under Section 18, as clarified by a government circular. The Court dismissed the writ petition filed by the respondent Association, affirming the validity of the government's instructions and the rejection of late applications for reference.