1. The important question that arises for our consideration in this case is, whether the principle of Promissory Estoppel would apply so as to compel the Government to acquire certain lands.

2. The brief facts of the case are as follows:
The appellant herein selected certain lands in Cholanaikanahalli and Nagawara villages. This was with a view to form a layout in the lands which had been shown in the comprehensive development plan for residential purposes. The appellant advanced a sum of Rs. 42.00 lakhs to the land owners. But it could not purchase the lands from the land owners on account of the restrictions placed for purchase of lands by the society. Therefore, the appellant approached the Government and made request to acquire the lands. By letter dt. 2-4-1986 a direction was issued by the Secretary, Revenue Department, Government of Karnataka, Bangalore, to the Special Deputy Commissioner, Bangalore District, to issue S.4 (1) Notification under the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 (hereinafter referred to as 'the Act') in respect of the lands measuring 46 acres 37 guntas in these two villages in favour of the appellant after the case is cleared by the three Men Committee and after t