The short question that arises for consideration in this appeal against acquittal is whether the prosecution of the respondent for offences under sections 184 and 185 and section 336 of the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act, 1965, is barred by limitation.

2. The following facts which are not disputed become material. The respondent owns agricultural land in S. No. 219 of 1981 Rayadurg Municipality. He sold a site measuring 49 ½ feet x 60 feet situated in the middle of that survey number on 4th February, 1981 under a registered document in favour of one Lakshmidevamma, The petitioner-municipality came to know about these alienations on information Exhibit P-1 furnished to it by the Sub Registrar. Rayadurg. P.W. 1 Revenue Inspector working in that Municipality visited the area and found that Lakshmidevamma erected a hut. The Municipality issued the notice Exhibit P-2 dated 8th May, 1931 to the respondent, informing him that he has contravened sections 184 and185 of the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act and called upon him to submit an application for sanction of a lay out within 7 days. The respondent sent the belated reply under Exhibit A-3 dated 4th February, 1982 expressing