Medha Patkar to protest against land acquisition bill in Nov

Nagpur, Sept 22: The National Alliance of People's Movement (NAPM) led by social activist Medha Patkar will launch a massive protest across the nation if their demand for detailed discussion on the Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation and Resettlement Bill 2011 is not met.

"Not a single stretch of agriculture should be acquired to set up industries," said Patkar adding that rallies would be organised in Nov.

"We are not happy with the 80:20 land acquisition ratio. We strongly feel that unless absolutely necessary, land should not be acquired."

"Around 80,000 hectares of land belonging to the Maharashtra Industries Development Corporation (MIDC) is lying unutilized since many years. It should be taken up for development projects. Irrigated land is a long term investment for food security and employment. It should not be taken up at any cost," she added.

"In our state, the government has been smoothly acquiring farm land under the MIDC Act. Other states do not have such acts. The NAPM believes that gram sabhas should be consulted before any decision is taken," Patkar suggested.

Patkar also expressed confidence in the government and said that Parliamentary Standing Committee would bring a strong Jan Lokpal bill in favour of people of the country. She added, "We want a strong Lokpal Bill, something which can keep political interferences at bay."

Patkar also advised people to give a close look on the progress of the Jan Lokpal Bill. "I appeal to people to form teams and visit colleges, offices and localities to create awareness about the bill. We are forming sub-committees that will meet party leaders and create awareness about the Jan Lokpal Bill," she said.

Patkar had participated in the recent India against corruption movement led by Anna Hazare in support of a strong Lokpal Bill.

OneIndia News