STATE OF ORISSA vs LAXMI NARAYAN DAS .(DEAD) THR. LRS.

The Supreme Court examined whether the delay of over 18 years in challenging a settlement order under the Orissa Survey & Settlement Act was justified and whether the writ petition filed after such a delay was maintainable. The Court considered the procedural lapses and the rights of the landowners to seek revision under Section 15(b) of the 1958 Act. It upheld the principle that inordinate delay without sufficient cause can bar relief, and emphasized the importance of timely remedies in land settlement disputes. The Court ultimately dismissed the appeal, affirming the High Court's decision to not interfere with the delayed petition.