In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of India has stepped in to halt the execution of a Gujarat High Court order demanding the retrieval of nearly 108 hectares of grazing land granted to an Adani Group entity in 2005. This prime land, located near the strategic Mundra port, has become the focal point of a contentious legal battle.
A Clash Over Grazing Rights
The Supreme Court’s intervention comes after the Gujarat High Court, acting on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by residents of Navinal village in Kutch district, ordered the state government to reclaim the land, designated as ‘gauchar’ or grazing land, and return it to the villagers. The villagers argued that the allocation of this land to the Adani Group infringed upon their traditional grazing rights and posed a threat to their livelihoods.
Adani Appeals High Court Order
Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), the Adani Group entity involved, promptly appealed the High Court’s ruling to the Supreme Court. The company contended that the reclamation order was unjust and would cause irreparable harm to its operations and investments in the region.
Supreme Court Grants Stay Order
A Supreme Court bench, comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan, deliberated on the appeal and concluded that a stay on the High Court’s order was warranted in the interest of justice. The court issued a notice to the Gujarat government, seeking a comprehensive response on the matter.
Implications for Land Acquisition and Development
This legal standoff has broader implications for land acquisition and development projects in India, particularly those involving large corporations and local communities. The Supreme Court’s intervention underscores the delicate balance between industrial growth and the protection of traditional land rights.
As the legal battle continues, the fate of the 108 hectares of grazing land hangs in the balance. The Supreme Court’s ultimate decision will not only determine the ownership of this particular parcel of land but also set a precedent for future cases involving land disputes between powerful corporations and local communities.
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
