The Government Of Tamil Nadu And Anr. ... vs Arulmighu Kallalagar Thirukoil Alagar ...

The Supreme Court addressed the dispute over the ownership of Alagar Hills, emphasizing the applicability of the Madras Forest Act, 1882, particularly Section 25, which governs the declaration of reserved forests. The Court upheld the High Court's decision that the Government's classification of Alagar Hills as a reserved forest was valid and that the devotees failed to provide evidence supporting their claim of ownership. Consequently, the appeals filed by the Government were allowed, affirming the trial Court's dismissal of the devotees' suit and the Respondent's claim for possession.