This is an application for the issue of a writ of mandamus directing the Revenue Divisional Officer of Ranipet to refer the question of compensation payable to the petitioner under the Land Acquisition Act to the Court under section 18(2) of the said Act.

The facts of the case lie in a very narrow compass, and may be briefly set out. The petitioner is the managing member of a joint Hindu family owning, among others, land bearing S. No.129 in the village of Muppaduvetti in Wallajah Taluk in North Arcot District. This land was the subject of notification for the purpose of acquisition under section 4 of the Land Acquisition Act. The Government took possession of the property. The petitioner claimed Rs.30 per cent for the lands and also additional compensation for a well on the property as well as for loss of certain privileges. The members of the joint family represented by the petitioner gave him letters of authority to represent them and also authorised the petitioner to receive the compensation due to them. At the enquiry which was conducted under section 11, which was held on 12th June, 1950, the petitioner appeared in person and claimed compensation at not less than Rs.30