Section 19 — Declaration of Acquisition

Effect of declaration

Upon publication of the declaration under Section 19, the land vests absolutely in the government free from all encumbrances — subject to payment of compensation under the Act. This is the point of no return in the acquisition timeline (aside from judicial challenge).

Pre-conditions

• SIA completed and accepted u/s 8
• Preliminary notification published u/s 11
• Objections heard and disposed u/s 15
• R&R scheme approved where applicable

Workflow

1. Collector's report

   Summary of objections, land schedule, and recommendations sent to government.

2. Declaration draft

   Legal department prepares declaration order for notified area.

3. Government approval & publication

   Signed declaration in Official Gazette.

4. Vesting & possession timeline

   Land deemed vested; process moves to measurement and award.