P.K. Misra, J.

The questions referred to the Full Bench for determination in the context of Tamil Nadu Acquisition of Land for Harijan Welfare Schemes Act, 1978 (Tamil Nadu Act 31 of 1978) hereinafter referred to as "the Act" are as follows:-

i) Is it necessary for the Collector to give a personal hearing to the owner in the context of his objections and the remarks of the Tahsildar?

ii) Is the owner entitled to a copy of the report of the Special Tahsildar or not?

iii) Should the Collector record his reasons in his order while dealing with the objections of the owner?

2. Before considering these questions, a brief introduction is required. The Act was enacted in the year 1978 to provide for acquisition of land for Harijan Welfare schemes. As soon as the Act was enacted, it was mired in legal controversy and its validity was challenged. The Madras High Court, by its Judgment dated 09.09.1981 declared that the Act was ultravires of the Constitution of India. However, in appeal, the Supreme Court upheld the validity of the Act except sub-section (1) of Section 11 to the extent that such provision provided that the compensation shall be paid in instalments. Such decision of the