New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Thursday declined to hear a petition challenging land acquisition proceedings in Ujjain linked to the expansion of parking facilities near the Mahakal Lok complex. The petition had contested a Madhya Pradesh High Court order dated January 11, which rejected objections to the acquisition process.
A bench comprising Justice Vikram Nath and Justice Sandeep Mehta examined the challenge and refused to interfere with the High Court ruling. During the hearing, the petitioner’s counsel argued that authorities failed to conduct a mandatory social impact assessment before initiating acquisition. The bench responded by stating the petitioner held possession of the land and lacked ownership rights.
The court also dismissed a separate plea challenging an earlier Supreme Court order dated November 7. That order had rejected a demand seeking directions for reconstruction of a mosque demolished following land acquisition proceedings. The structure, known as Takiya Masjid, was believed to have been established around 200 years ago. Authorities demolished it in January after acquiring the land for expansion of the Mahakal Lok parking area.
The High Court had earlier addressed multiple petitions opposing the acquisition. In December 2024, a division bench dismissed appeals filed against earlier rejections. Petitioners argued they had lived on the acquired land for over 30 years and alleged the state failed to take steps for rehabilitation and resettlement. They also claimed compensation paid remained insufficient for relocation.
The state government countered those claims before the High Court. Its counsel stated the overall Mahakal complex development project faced delays due to a small group of appellants. The state further argued appellants accepted compensation and still did not vacate the land.
With the Supreme Court declining to hear the matter, the High Court order upholding land acquisition stands.
