*Supreme Court Upholds Patna High Court Decision in Chhapra Topoland Case*
The Hon'ble Supreme Court of India has dismissed the Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed by the Chhapra Municipal Corporation, affirming the view taken by the Hon'ble Patna High Court in the Topoland controversy in Chhapra district.
Ms. Neha Singh, representing the respondent, presented compelling arguments highlighting her client's ongoing harassment by local authorities. She pointed out that despite concurrent ruling by the Division Bench, her client is being obstructed from continuing construction work, including a retention wall, even in the absence of any stay orders from the Supreme Court.
The Bench, comprising Justice K. V. Vishwanathan and Justice Prasanna B. Varale, advised the respondent to file a Contempt Petition should the Municipal Authorities persist in obstructing the construction activities. Ms. Singh also made counter submissions regarding the delay by the State Government in introducing a new policy for the registration of unsurveyed land—a commitment made in 2023 but yet to be implemented.
This decision by the Apex Court brings significant relief to affected landowners and has broader implications for the residents of Chhapra district, who have been advocating for clarity and protesting for a resolution to this matter for several years.