PRALHAD vs STATE OF MAHARASHTRA

The Supreme Court addressed the applicability of Section 23(1A) of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894, in cases where landowners did not file appeals or cross-objections against the Reference Court's award. The Court held that the High Court erred in dismissing the landowners' applications for additional compensation under Section 23(1A), affirming that such benefits can be granted even in the absence of an appeal. The judgment emphasized the entitlement of landowners to enhanced compensation as per the amendment provisions, thereby allowing the appeals of the landowners.