( 1 ) AMONGST many buildings of historical and archeological interest adorning the sky line of Delhi is one known as Qutab Minar. Succumbing only partially to the vagaries of time, it stands proudly in a once sleepy hamlet of Delhi called Mehrauli. It now overseas colossal developmental activity around it. A little ahead of the complex now developed as a tourist spot around this Minar but under its lengthening shadows lies a piece of land bearing Khasra Nos. 1905/1811/1492 (less then one biswa), 1906/1811/1493 (10-11) and 1909/1812/1497 (7-19) total measuring 18 bighas 10 biswas. This piece of land is at the centre-storm of this legal battle. The cause is provided by the proceedings to acquire it under the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act (hereinafter called the Act ). Following is a brief resume of the facts.

( 2 ) SOMETIME in the year 1916 the father of the petitioners purchased the land in question and later constructed thereon a Dharamshala. a: Piao, three residential buildings and two water tanks. Part of the land was developed into a garden. He died in the year 1942 consequent upon which the land was mutated in the name of the petitioner. On November 13, 19