Hon’ble Devi Prasad Singh, J.—Heard learned counsel for the parties as well as learned Standing Counsel and perused the record.

2. The petitioners are the lease holders of surplus land left out in ceiling proceedings. In pursuance to the resolution of the Gram Sabha dated 17.9.1997 (Annexure-1), land in question was allotted to the petitioners and other persons (in total, 18 in number). The allotment was duly approved by the Pargana Adhikari on 6.6.1998 and in consequence thereof, the possession of lease land was given to the petitioners. The respondents 5 to 10 had filed an application under sub-section (4) of Section 198 of U.P. Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, 1950 (in short, Act) with the allegation that the lease has been granted to the relatives of the village Pradhan and his associates. It was stated by the complainant in their complaint (Annexure-2) that the lease land is being used for public purpose in the form of Khalihan covered by trees. A plea was also taken that the land has already been given for residential purpose and the Gram Sabha has allotted the land without following the procedure prescribed by Gram Sabha Manual. Six complainants who were mem