Supreme Court Blocks Petition Over Mahakal Lok Expansion

The Supreme Court has dismissed a petition challenging the land acquisition for expanding the Mahakal Lok Parishar's parking space in Ujjain. The petitioners argued that adequate compensation wasn't provided, but the bench maintained that they weren't the landowners. The court also addressed issues of rehabilitation and resettlement.

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed a petition contesting the land acquisition for expanding the parking area of the Mahakal Lok Parishar in Ujjain. Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta ruled against the plea, which aimed to overturn a January 11 Madhya Pradesh High Court decision.

Despite arguments emphasizing insufficient compensation and lack of a social impact assessment, the bench noted the petitioners were merely occupants and had accepted compensation. Furthermore, the Takiya Masjid, a 200-year-old mosque, was demolished following these proceedings.

The high court's previous decision allowed 30 days for petitioners to seek reference under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act. The Supreme Court extended this period, while reaffirming their eviction and right to challenge the order under section 64.

(With inputs from agencies.)