Nashik Farmers Protest Low Compensation for Kumbh Mela Land Acquisition
Farmers in Trimbakeshwar town, Nashik, have strongly objected to the compensation rates announced by the government for land acquired for the construction of ghats along the Godavari river for the upcoming Simhastha Kumbh Mela. The farmers have warned of a more intense agitation starting Wednesday if their demands are not met.
Farmers Reject 'Paltry' Compensation Offers
The farmers have declared that the compensation announced by the district administration is a paltry sum that they will not accept under any circumstances. "The offered rates are so low that we will not be able to fetch a similar piece of land even on the outskirts of the city. The government should give us a minimum of Rs 5 lakh per guntha," stated Balasaheb Warunse, a local farmer representing the aggrieved community.
They have accused the government of acting unilaterally without consulting them, announcing rates that do not reflect the true value of their land. The farmers argue that administrative excuses do not justify acquiring land at what they describe as a 'dirt-cheap price'.
Administration's Justification Based on Green Belt Classification
According to a senior officer from the district administration, the compensation rates were determined based on specific land classifications and legal frameworks. "The said land is classified in the green belt, and hence the rates in the ready reckoner are low. Besides, there can be no development. Therefore, commercially too, they are less viable, and the demand for such land is low," the officer explained.
The officer emphasized that the calculation was carried out with transparency, noting that since the land is located within the town, it falls under the 'Multiple 1' condition. This means the compensation is limited to the announced amount, with a solatium of an additional 100%, effectively doubling the total payment. In contrast, rural areas have a 'Multiple 2' factor, resulting in compensation that is four times the base value after solatium.
Farmers Question Fairness and Policy Impact
Farmer Kisan Kothule raised critical questions about the fairness of the process, highlighting the power dynamics at play. "Who decides the land is in the green belt? Administration. Who decides the rate? Administration. Who suffers from such policies? Farmers. Why?" he questioned, underscoring the perceived injustice in the system.
Political Intervention and Ultimatum Issued
In response to the growing unrest, Igatpuri-Trimbakeshwar MLA Hiraman Khoskar met with the agitating farmers and assured them that he would take up the issue directly with the chief minister to seek a resolution.
However, the farmers have issued a firm ultimatum, warning of drastic actions if their demands are not addressed. "We gave an ultimatum till Wednesday, before which the government should take the decision in the interest of the farmers, or the farmers will take extreme steps and the government will have to face the consequences," warned Kothule, indicating the potential for escalated protests.
Administration's Stance on Following Government Orders
Officials from the district administration have stated that they will abide by government orders regarding the payment of compensation, suggesting that any changes would require higher-level directives. This stance sets the stage for a potential confrontation as the Wednesday deadline approaches, with farmers determined to secure what they believe is fair compensation for their land acquired for the prestigious Kumbh Mela event.
