Judgments on that a land cannot only be denoted by its khasra number

Legal Analysis: Khasra Numbers and Land Ownership

Overview

The question at hand pertains to the legal standing of khasra numbers in denoting land ownership and possession in the Indian judiciary system. The analysis of various judgments reveals that while khasra numbers are significant for identifying agricultural land, they do not solely determine ownership or rights over the land.

Key Findings

1. Khasra Numbers as Identifiers

Khasra numbers are primarily used by revenue authorities to identify agricultural land. However, their assignment can be complicated by urban development and changes in land use.
The courts have recognized that discrepancies in khasra numbers do not necessarily affect the physical existence or identification of the land. For instance, in cases where the khasra number was disputed, the courts emphasized the importance of actual possession and physical identification over mere numerical designation Syed Aijaz Hussain VS Islahuddin Khan & Ors - Delhi Syed Aijaz Hussain vs Islahuddin Khan - Delhi.

2. Actual Possession vs. Khasra Number

The legal principle established in several judgments indicates that actual physical possession of land is a critical factor. For example, in a case where the plaintiff was found in actual physical possession, the court ruled that the defendants could not interfere, regardless of the khasra number discrepancies Daulat Ram (Since Deceased) Through His Legal Heirs VS Onkar Singh (Since Deceased) Through His Legal Heirs - Himachal Pradesh.
The courts have held that the legal effect of a khasra number can be overridden by evidence of actual possession and the historical context of land use. This was evident in cases where the land was identified by its physical characteristics rather than its khasra number Syed Aijaz Hussain VS Islahuddin Khan & Ors - Delhi Syed Aijaz Hussain vs Islahuddin Khan - Delhi.

3. Legal Sanctity of Khasra Numbers

While khasra numbers serve as a historical record and can act as a deed of title in the absence of other documents, they are not infallible. The courts have noted that the rapid urbanization and fragmentation of land make it challenging to rely solely on khasra numbers for legal determinations Jt. Collector Ranga Reddy Dist. VS D. Narsing Rao - Supreme Court.
The judgments indicate that the legal sanctity of khasra numbers is contingent upon their accuracy and the context in which they are applied. If a khasra number is found to be incorrect or outdated, it does not negate the rights of individuals who have established possession or ownership through other means Tehsildar, Urban Improvement Trust VS Ganga Bai Menariya (Dead) through LRs. - Supreme Court Ali Mohammad Beigh VS State of J&K - Supreme Court.

Conclusion

The legal framework surrounding khasra numbers in India indicates that while they are important for identifying agricultural land, they do not exclusively determine ownership or rights. Actual possession and the historical context of land use play a crucial role in legal determinations.

Recommendations

When dealing with land disputes, focus on establishing actual possession and the historical context of land use rather than relying solely on khasra numbers.
Consider gathering comprehensive evidence of possession, including documents, witness testimonies, and physical surveys, to support claims in court.
Be prepared to challenge the validity of khasra numbers if they are outdated or incorrect, emphasizing the importance of actual possession in legal arguments.