ARUN MANOHAR DANGE vs SPECIAL LAND ACQUISITION OFFICER,

The Supreme Court addressed the issue of just compensation for land acquisition under the Land Acquisition Act, emphasizing the need to consider the availability of basic amenities and the development stage of the locality. The Court found that the High Court's deduction of 75% for development charges was unjustified given the evidence of existing infrastructure and the potential for housing development. Consequently, the Court held that the market value should be adjusted to reflect these factors, leading to a revised compensation amount of Rs. 445 per sq. meter without the excessive deduction.