21 May 2024 Civil Suits >> Civil & Consumer Law  

A woman in Odisha, India, has been awarded a resident certificate for the village of Paikasta after a court battle. The certificate, which was initially denied, is crucial for applying for certain jobs and benefits.

The woman, whose name is not mentioned in the court documents, argued that she had been living in Paikasta with her husband since 2008. Her mother-in-law had purchased land in the village and built a house there. To support her claim, she presented various documents, including a report by a government official who investigates land revenue matters.

The opposing party, however, contended that the woman's family originated from Bhimpur, another village, and that she was not a resident of Paikasta.

The court, after reviewing the evidence, sided with the woman. The judge noted that an official inquiry had been conducted and supported her claim of residency. The court also cited previous rulings where resident certificates were granted to people who had resided in a place for less than a year.

The court's order directed the following:

• The woman's petition is approved.
• The previous order denying her the resident certificate is cancelled.
• The decision granting the certificate is reinstated.
• Each party involved will cover their own legal expenses.