Farmers rally against land acquisition

K K Jha
Indore. A large number of farmers gathered at Laxmibai Nagar Grain Market here to protest against the acquisition of agricultural land for the development of the Eastern and Western Ring Roads. Despite their best efforts, the Indian Farmers’ Union’s planned tractor rally to the collector’s office was not allowed, and the farmers were met with opposition from a sizable police presence at the entrance gate of the market. As a result, the farmers had to stage their protest on the market premises.

The farmers’ main concern is the acquisition of fertile and productive farmland, which they believe is unfair, particularly as it makes up 95% of the land earmarked for acquisition. They demand that the acquisition of fertile land be minimized. Additionally, they contest the government’s compensation for the land, arguing that it falls below the current market value. While the government proposes to double the guideline rate as compensation, the farmers insist that the actual land value in affected villages significantly surpasses the current guidelines.
Krishnapal Singh Rathore, the district president of the Indian Farmers’ Union in Indore, expressed his frustration, stating that previous attempts to engage with the administration yielded no response. Despite reaching out to elected representatives, no substantive action was taken, leading the farmers to organize the tractor rally. The police were present in large numbers to maintain order during the protest.

Understandably, the farmers feel frustrated and distressed by the situation. It is essential to listen to their concerns and engage in constructive dialogue to find a solution that benefits both the farmers and the broader community.