JUDGMENT

Kurian, J.

1. Leave granted.

2. Whether the High Court, under Article 226 of the Constitution of India, can compel the State to complete the acquisition proceedings initiated under Section 4(1) of the Land Acquisition Act (for short ‘the Act’), is one of the short questions arising for consideration in these cases. Another short question is – Whether writ can be issued compelling the Land Acquisition Collector/Officer to implement the instruction issued to him by the Government otherwise than under the procedure under the Act?

SHORT FACTS

3. The writ petitioners/appellants herein having their property in Mukundur village, Hassan Taluk in Karnataka State approached the High Court for following directions:

“Issue Writ of Mandamus directing Deputy Commissioner and Land Acquisition Officer to pass the award as per the directions of the Principal Secretary, Revenue Department, Government of Karnataka and the decision of State Government dated 19.11.2009.”

4. The letter dated 19.11.2009 from the Principal Secretary to Government, Revenue Department, addressed to the Deputy Commissioner, Hasan District, reads as under:

“Sir,

Sub:- Framing award in respect of Mukundooru, Gaddebin