JUDGMENT

G.P. Mathur, J.-Civil Appeal No. 3105 of 1997 has been preferred by Gaon Sabha and another against the judgment and decree dated 7.11.1991 of Delhi High Court in RFA No. 209 of 1986. Civil Appeal No. 2183 of 1993 has been preferred by Union of India and another against the judgment and decree dated 30.5.1991 of Delhi High Court in RFA No. 167 of 1986. The controversy involved in both the appeals is identical and, therefore, they are being disposed of by a common order. Civil Appeal No. 2183 of 1993 was initially allowed by this Court on 7.2.1997 but the order was recalled on 25.7.2003 on the ground that some of the respondents had died and their heirs had not been brought on record when the matter was heard and decided at the earlier stage.

2. We will mention the facts of CA No. 3105 of 1997 which has been preferred by Gaon Sabha and Union of India against Nathi and 38 others. Proceedings for acquisition of a large tract of land were initiated by issuing notifications under Section 4(1) and 6 of the Land Acquisition Act. The Collector made an award but a dispute arose regarding the right to receive compensation between the Gaon Sabha and the private respondents. He according