Kalma Barrage-Submerged Farmer’s Land: Chhattisgarh HC Orders Acquisition Proceedings And Compensation Within Six Months Of Certified Order Copy

The petitioner, an agriculturist, claimed ownership of several parcels of land at Village Timarlaga, Raigarh, which he alleged had come under submergence due to construction of the Kalma Barrage, preventing cultivation.

Although compensation had reportedly been awarded to similarly situated landowners, the petitioner had received none, despite making representations to the authorities.

He relied on an 11 August 2026 letter from the Executive Engineer, Water Resources Department, acknowledging that his land was affected by submergence.

The State did not oppose his request for consideration of compensation.

The judgment identifies no specific statute, legal provision, or precedent as the basis for its decision.

It proceeds on the case-specific basis that, in light of the Water Resources Department’s communication acknowledging submergence and the State’s non-opposition, the competent authority should consider the petitioner’s claim, initiate appropriate acquisition proceedings, and determine and disburse compensation.

The Court relied on the Executive Engineer’s letter confirming that the petitioner’s land had come under submergence and noted that the State did not oppose the requested relief.

On that record, it directed the competent authority, particularly the Collector, to consider the petitioner’s case, initiate appropriate acquisition proceedings, and determine and disburse compensation for the affected land.