In Brief
The State of Uttar Pradesh challenged a High Court order directing that Nazul land held by the respondent on leasehold should be converted to freehold under a Government Order applicable to Development Authority properties, rather than the Order specifically for Nazul land. The Supreme Court held that lands vesting in the State (Nazul) and those vesting in Development Authorities differ fundamentally in their modes of acquisition and holding. Therefore, the State may lawfully prescribe different conversion fees and procedures for each category without violating Article 14. The High Court erred in requiring uniform treatment. The appeal was allowed, and the respondent was permitted to apply afresh under the correct Nazul land conversion scheme.
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