समता बनाम आंध्र प्रदेश राज्य
| Citation | AIR 1997 SC 3297, (1997) 8 SCC 191 |
| Court | Supreme Court of India |
| Date | 11 July 1997 |
| Year | 1997 |
| Bench | K. Ramaswamy, S. Saghir Ahmad, G.B. Pattanaik JJ. |
| Acts/Articles | Fifth Schedule, Article 21, AP Scheduled Areas Land Transfer Regulation |
| Category | Constitutional Law, Haryana-Specific |
Key Principle Established
Transfer of tribal land to non-tribals including mining companies is prohibited in Scheduled Areas. Right to livelihood of tribals is not mere survival but life with dignity.
Samatha, an NGO, challenged the grant of mining leases to private companies in Scheduled Areas of Andhra Pradesh, arguing it violated the prohibition on transfer of tribal land to non-tribals.
The Court held that transfer of tribal land in Scheduled Areas to non-tribals, including mining companies, is prohibited. The right to livelihood of tribals is not mere survival but includes living with dignity. Mining leases granted to private companies in violation of land transfer regulations are void.
This judgment protected tribal land rights across India and is cited in all cases involving mining in Scheduled Areas. It established that corporate interests cannot override the constitutional protection of tribal lands.
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Read AnalysisThis judgment summary is for educational and research purposes. While care has been taken to accurately represent the ratio and findings, for authoritative reference always consult the original judgment text from official sources (SCC Online, AIR, Manupatra, or court websites).
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