In a pivotal legal turn of events, the Supreme Court commenced hearings on a petition lodged by Amaravati farmers contesting the R5 Zone on Monday. The case has since been redirected to a bench that is concurrently managing the Amaravati matter. High-profile legal representatives Harish Salve, Mukul Rohtagi, Shyandivaan, and Dev Dutt Kamat articulated the farmers' grievances during the morning proceedings. In a subsequent ruling, the Supreme Court decreed that the R5 Zone dispute is to be adjudicated by the bench under the stewardship of Justice Joseph, who is presently presiding over the Amaravati case. This order was established in line with a directive propagated by the Supreme Court registry on Friday, mandating the inclusion of both petitions in Justice Joseph's purview. During Monday's examination, Harish Salve, acting on behalf of the farmers, implored for a temporary halt on the R5 Zone until the ensuing hearing. However, this plea was countered by legal counsel representing the Andhra Pradesh (AP) government.