Sanjay Kishan Kaul, J.

.1. The petitioners seek to challenge the acquisition proceedings in respect of their land located at Village Mahipalpur, New Delhi under the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (hereinafter referred to as the said Act) and dispensation of the hearing under Section 5A of the said Act by invocation of the provisions of Sections 17(1) and 17(4) of the said Act.

2. The battle for acquisition of this land has been going on since 1965. A notification under Section 4 of the said Act was issued by the Lieutenant Governor of Delhi on 23.1.1965 for acquisition of a large chunk of land measuring 6241 bighas and 12 biswas in Village Mahipalpur, New Delhi sought for public purpose of planned development of Delhi. A declaration under Section 6 of the said Act was made on 22.12.1966 and another one on 26.12.1968. The land in question was really sought to be acquired for the benefit of the Airports Authority of India (for short AAI) for the airport. The affected parties including the petitioners who were running the business of pottery under the name of Palam Potteries filed proceedings which went up to Supreme Court. The views of the Supreme Court are fou