Supreme Court Warns Government Against Failure To Respond Section 80 CPC Notices

The Supreme Court ruled that failing to acknowledge a Section 80 CPC notice or communicate a stand may lead to adverse inferences against the government.

In a dispute over land ownership in Andhra Pradesh, the appellant claimed possession since 1970, supported by official records.

Despite serving a notice under Section 80 CPC, the state failed to respond. The Court emphasized that government authorities must treat such notices seriously, as silence may undermine their defense.

Setting aside the High Court ruling, the Court ordered compensation of ₹70 lakh to the appellant, higlighting that public authorities must respond to legal notices to prevent unnecessary litigation.