JUDGMENT :

Siddhartha Varma, J.

1. This writ petition has been filed against the order of the Additional Collector (Land Acquisition), Irrigation, Ghaziabad dated 16.10.2006 and the order dated 26.10.2008 passed by the Additional Commissioner, Meerut Division, Meerut in a proceeding under section 198(4) of the U.P. Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, 1950.1

2. The case of the petitioners is that they, along with certain other villagers were granted pattas on 19.12.1990, which were, as per the relevant rules, approved on 29.4.1992. Notice was issued on 15.6.2006 under section 198(4) of the 1950 Act for the cancellation of the pattas. The petitioners submitted their replies and in effect stated that there was nothing wrong in the pattas and the same were being cancelled simply because in the year 2004 acquisition of the land had taken place and the Government did not wish to pay compensation to the petitioners.

3. Learned Counsel for the petitioners vehemently assailed the orders and submitted that the proceedings for the cancellation of the pattas could have been initiated within three years of the grant of the pattas and, therefore, the proceedings be considered as barred by limi