P.A. Costa Vs. Urban Development Authority and others – SC FR 379/2018-2025

The case between P.A. Costa and the Urban Development Authority and others, addressed the issue of an alleged violation of Article 12(1) of the Constitution concerning the demolition of a parapet wall on acquired land. It was determined that the State held conclusive title to the acquired land under Section 40A(a) of the Land Acquisition Act, having taken vacant possession. The Court held that the demolition, which occurred after prior notice and on legally acquired land, did not constitute an unlawful act by the State or a violation of Article 12(1). This decision reaffirmed the principle that the State, as the legal owner of acquired land, is entitled to perform acts consistent with its ownership rights.

JANAK DE SILVA, J. – The Petitioner complained that officials from the Urban Deve