Jamshedpur: Justice Anand Sen of the Jharkhand High Court issued key directions today regarding a land dispute linked to the upcoming Sarhul festival in Saraikela-Kharsawan district.
Petitioner Alleges Forcible Occupation
The petitioner, Surya Pad Mahato, approached the court via Writ Petition No. 1868/2026. He alleges that certain individuals have attempted to forcibly occupy his 7.5 acres of land at Saherbera since 2024. Mahato claims these groups are using the Sarhul festival as a pretext to take over plot numbers 395, 397, 403, and 404.
Despite filing multiple complaints with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Deputy Commissioner, and police officials, Mahato informed the court that authorities took no action. He also challenged a Section 144 notice, arguing the SDM summoned him without citing clear grounds.
Court Orders Immediate Administrative Action
After hearing both sides, the High Court directed Mahato to appear before the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO) in Chandil at 3 PM today, March 21. The court ordered him to bring all relevant ownership documents for verification.
The High Court observed that the SDO must protect Mahato’s property rights if the documents establish a prima facie title in his favor.
Rapid Legal Communication
To ensure compliance, the High Court registry faxed the directive to the ADM and other concerned officials by 1:30 PM today. Advocates Akhilesh Kumar Shrivastava and Neha Agrawal represented the petitioner during the proceedings, which included arguments presented via virtual mode.
The court subsequently disposed of the writ petition, emphasizing that administrative bodies hold the responsibility to safeguard lawful property ownership during public events.
