Heard the leaned AGP appearing for the appellant – State and the learned counsel appearing for the respondent. The appellant – State of Maharashtra has impugned Judgment and Award dated 30th November, 1995 passed by the Land Acquisition Officer in a Reference under Section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (hereinafter referred to as “the said Act”). The acquisition relates to lands situated at village Pendhar, Taluka Panvel, District Raigad which were notified for acquisition under Section 4(1) of the said Act on 3rd February, 1970. The purpose of acquisition was setting up satellite city of New Bombay. The Award made under Section 18 of the said Act was not accepted by the respondentclaimant and therefore, at his instance the Reference was made. The Reference Court by the impugned Judgment and Award has fixed the market value of the acquired land of Rs.14/per square meter and has granted statutory benefits under Sections 23(1A), 23(2) and 28 of the said Act.

2. There is a Cross Objection filed by the respondent-claimant seeking enhancement in the market value. The said Cross Objection was filed by the respondent-claimant on 22nd June, 2011 alongwith an application f