In Singur, Hooghly district, a significant controversy erupted on Thursday when twenty local landowners took formal action against the planned public meeting of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. They lodged complaints with the police and the Block Development Officer, stating that the event, scheduled for January 18, was being organized on their property without their prior knowledge or approval.
Landowners Voice Their Grievances
The group, including Bharat Sahana and Muktoram Santra, submitted written complaints at the Singur police station and to the BDO. They expressed shock and frustration upon discovering that preparations for the rally at Gopalnagar in Singher Bheri mouza were already underway. In their complaint, they emphasized, "We are the rightful owners of this land. We found out that a meeting addressed by the Prime Minister is set to occur here on January 18. How can pandals and other structures be erected without our consent? We urge authorities to take immediate and necessary action."
Administrative and Political Responses
Sauvik Ghoshal, the Block Development Officer, confirmed receiving the complaints and stated that the matter had been forwarded to the police for further investigation. On the political front, BJP Hooghly organisational president Gautam Chatterjee defended the party's actions, claiming they had obtained proper administrative clearance. He asserted, "We possess a permission letter for the event. The meeting was planned after thorough discussions with the administration. It appears that a section of TMC leaders is attempting to create disturbances because they are nervous about the success of this gathering."
In contrast, State Minister Becharam Manna from the TMC countered, "Our party has never opposed industrialization. However, the BJP did not even consider seeking permission from the landowners whose property they are using for the rally. The landowners have explicitly denied permission and have formally complained to the BDO, highlighting the BJP's disregard for local rights."
Mixed Reactions from the Local Community
The rally has sparked diverse opinions among Singur residents, reflecting the area's complex history with land issues. Amiya Dhara, one of the landowners, initially supported the meeting but changed his stance. He explained, "I was in favor of the rally at first. However, after hearing Sukanta Majumdar speak about the potential return of the Tatas, I reconsidered. I no longer support this event, as it revives painful memories of past industrial disputes."
On the other hand, Mahadeb Das, a farmer who participated in the 2006 Singur land acquisition protests, offered a different perspective. He shared, "Since we regained the land in 2016, we have struggled to cultivate it effectively because the soil conditions are not favorable for agriculture. I have written to the state government twice about this issue. If the Prime Minister can assist in resolving this matter, why should I not attend the rally? It might bring much-needed attention to our agricultural challenges."
This incident underscores the ongoing tensions in Singur, a region historically marked by land acquisition controversies. The complaints from landowners have added a new layer to the political rivalry between the BJP and TMC, with both parties leveraging the situation to advance their narratives. As the January 18 date approaches, all eyes are on how authorities will address these grievances and whether the rally will proceed as planned amidst the growing dissent.
