1. Heard learned counsel for the parties.

2. This appeal is directed against the judgment and order dated 2nd November 1995 passed by the Joint Civil Judge, Senior Division, Ratnagiri, sitting at Sawantwadi, allowing the reference under section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (for short "the Act").

3. The respondent was the owner of the land bearing survey no.40 hissa nos.7 and 8 admeasuring 77 ares and 72 ares respectively situated at village Vabhave, Taluka Vaibhavwadi, District Ratnagiri (for short "the acquired land"). A notification under section 4 of the Act was published on 1st March 1988 proposing to acquire the said lands for the purpose of construction of a Tahsil office. The declaration under section 6 of the Act was made on 17th April 1989 and the award was published on 27th April 1989, awarding compensation of Rs.17,520/- to the respondent. On an application of the respondent, the Collector made a reference to the court under section 18 of the Act which was transferred to the Court of Civil Judge, Senior Division for hearing and disposal in accordance with law. Before the reference court, the respondent examined himself on oath as P.W.1. He however did n