Irked over the increasing number of cases highlighting illegal and strange policies adopted by the Haryana government in acquiring and releasing land in the state,the Punjab and Haryana High Court today directed the Chief Secretary,Haryana,to appear in court. A Division Bench headed by Justice A.K. Goel had taken strong view of the fact that a number of people were approaching the court,alleging that the Haryana government had acquired their land for public purposes,but later released it to private parties. Coming to the rescue of the Chief Secretary,the Haryana Advocate General appeared in person before the Division Bench and submitted that a detailed reply in this regard will be filed in court next week. It might be recalled that on January 15,the Bench had directed the Chief Secretary to explain the factors it takes into account while releasing land acquired for public purposes. The court today expressed its displeasure over the fact that the Chief Secretary should have filed the report directly in the High Court instead of the Advocate General pleading for time. Meanwhile,in a similar instance,the High Court today stayed the proceedings and effect of three notifications issued by the Haryana government,wherein land located in Sonepat was acquired but later released to 12 industries. The directions were passed in wake of a petition filed by 10 residents of Sonepat. The case set out in the petition is that 833 acres of land was notified for acquisition for public purpose. Subsequent actions have clearly shown that in fact there was no public purpose,but only private purpose for the acquisition, the court held. After a notification dated October 5,2005,was issued,the 12 industries were enabled to purchase more than 653 acres and the state machinery allowed sale deeds to be registered. After the industries purchased the land from the government,the state machinery was used for released of the land by a notification dated October 16,2008. Surprisingly,the notification was issued one day prior to announcing of the award. The High Court held,Prima facie,the above facts show patent abuse of power and illegality. However,before passing any further orders,the court has directed the Chief Secretary to file an affidavit. The court expressed surprise over the acquisition even when land was declared to be needed for public purposes and when the industries were not even owners on the date of notification. The case has been adjourned to February 25. Meanwhile,the operation and effect of release of land in question vide notifications will remain stayed. The court has directed the state to ensure that no third party rights are created and no further steps are taken on land. The state has been further directed to explain if any remedial steps are being taken after the fraud,abuse of power and violation of law has been brought to the courts notice.
