Madras HC Gives Officials 12 Weeks To Remove Encroachments Along 1.4-km Sigar–Mudikandoor Road

The petitioner sought a writ of mandamus directing the respondents, particularly the Tahsildar, to remove alleged encroachments on both sides of the road from Sigar Village Bridge to Mudikandoor, a distance of 1.4 km, relying on a representation dated 30 April 2023.

The State submitted that revenue authorities had surveyed the area, identified encroachments, and issued a Form I notice to the Block Development Officer, who was to take enforcement action under the applicable procedures.

The petition invoked the High Court’s jurisdiction under Article 226 of the Constitution of India to seek a writ of mandamus.

The Court directed removal of the encroachments in accordance with the procedures contemplated by the relevant statutes and rules; it did not identify any particular enactment, statutory provision, or precedent.

The Court relied on the State’s submission, supported by the Tahsildar’s written instructions, that a survey had identified encroachments and that a Form I notice had been issued to the Block Development Officer.

In light of that progress, the Court directed respondents 2 and 3 to proceed with enforcement and remove the encroachments, subject to the procedures under the applicable statutes and rules.

The writ petition was disposed of without costs, and any connected miscellaneous petitions were closed.