Internal differences have emerged in the villagers' campaign against the proposed nuclear power plant at Besur village in Sagar taluk on Monday, with several members insisting that environmentalist Ananth Hegde Ashisara be kept out of the agitation. Residents expressed alarm over Ashisara's recent appeal to forest minister Eshwar Khandre to return Karnataka Power Corporation lands to the forest department, a move they fear could eventually displace them.
Protest Preparations Underway
Despite the friction, villagers are gearing up to launch a protest against the proposed project at Besur, located in the Sharavathi backwaters. As reports of official correspondence regarding the nuclear power plant spread, local communities mobilized under the leadership of veteran farmer leader TN Srinivas. Srinivas chaired a preliminary protest meeting at the Kolur gram panchayat hall on Monday afternoon.
Participants Denounce Project
Participants, including committee president Besur Ashok and vice-president Haranabailu Manjappa, termed the proposed project "destructive" and resolved to launch a movement to protect the ecology and livelihoods of the backwater region. They emphasized the need to safeguard the environment and their way of life.
Political Clarifications
Seeking to allay concerns, Shivamogga MP BY Raghavendra cited a clarification by the Deputy Commissioner that the district administration has deemed the site unsuitable for a nuclear power plant. Sagar MLA Gopal Krishna Belur told reporters that he has sought details about the project from the district administration. These statements aim to reassure the local population amidst growing uncertainty.
