JUDGMENT

A. K. PARICHHA, J. — This appeal is directed against the order of the learned Subordinate Judge, Deogarh dated 29.4.1993 in L.A. Misc. Case No.51 of 1992 in a matter of reference under Section 18 of the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (hereinafter called ‘the Act’).

2. By Declaration No.49933 dated 21.6.1994 the State Respondent acquired Ac.1.16 decimals of land of the appellant for Rengali Dam Project (Reservoir). The Land Acquisition Zone Offi¬cer (hereinafter call ‘the Zone Officer’), Barkot after inquiry computed the market value of the acquired land and trees standing thereon and awarded a total compensation of Rs.9,066.42 paise. Not being satisfied with the quantum of compensation, the appel¬lant filed a petition before the Zone Officer to refer the matter under Section 18 of the Act for determination of the proper amount of compensation. On this petition the Zone Officer re¬ferred the matter to the learned Subordinate Judge,Deogarh. The said Court allowed the parties to lead evidence. The appellant examined himself as P.W.1, but he did not adduce any documentary evidence. No oral or documentary evidence was also adduced from the side of the present respondent. After cons