Order

Though notices have been served, respondents are not appearing either in person or through counsel.

Leave granted.

2. Notification under Section 4(1) of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (for short, the Act ) was published on September 26, 1981 for public purpose, namely, establishment of Bus Depot/Stand in Gadwal Town of Mahaboobnagar District in the State of Andhra Pradesh. The Land Acquisition Officer in his award dated December 27, 1983 awarded compensation at the rate of Rs. 8,000/- per acre. On reference, the Civil Court by its award and decree dated November 15, 1985, enhanced the compensation to Rs. 20/- per sq. yd. On appeal, the Division Bench of the A.P. High Court in Appeal No. 2391/86 by judgment and decree dated August 8, 1996 has confirmed the same. Thus, this appeal, by special leave.

3. The High Court has relied upon Ex. A-4 the sale wherein related to a small piece of land, and accordingly confirmed the market value @ Rs. 20/- per sq.yd. It is now well settled legal position that small pieces of land cannot offer the same market value when a large track of land is purchased in an open market by a willing and prudent purchaser. It is settled legal position that th