The Nagarika Horata Samiti has officially withdrawn its eight-day-long dharna after the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Dakshina Kannada agreed to address their key demands. The protest, which had been ongoing for over a week, was centered around the immediate acquisition of 27 acres of land identified for the proposed green belt of the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (MRPL).
Key Demands of the Protestors
The agitators had put forward several critical demands, including the swift acquisition of the 27-acre plot earmarked for MRPL's green belt. Additionally, they insisted on the completion of promised rehabilitation measures within a fixed timeframe. The protestors argued that these measures were essential for the affected families and the overall environmental sustainability of the region.
Government's Response
Following negotiations, the Deputy Commissioner assured the Samiti that the acquisition process would be expedited. The DC also committed to a clear timeline for the rehabilitation of displaced individuals. This assurance led to the immediate withdrawal of the dharna, bringing relief to both the protestors and local authorities.
The protest had drawn attention to the long-standing issues of land acquisition and rehabilitation in the region. Many residents had been awaiting compensation and resettlement for years, and the Samiti's agitation aimed to fast-track these processes.
With the DC's agreement, the Samiti has called off the protest, but they have warned of further action if the commitments are not honored within the stipulated period. The development marks a significant step towards resolving the land acquisition dispute in Mangaluru.
