Congress Calls for White Paper to Confirm No Execution of Par-Tapi-Narmada Linking Project

The Congress party in Gujarat is urging the Centre to issue a white paper confirming that the Par-Tapi-Narmada river linking project will not be executed, citing potential displacement of 50,000 tribal families. This follows concerns raised by tribal leaders about the project's status.

The Congress party in Gujarat has accused the ruling BJP of misleading tribal communities about the Par-Tapi-Narmada river linking project. They urged the central government to release a white paper declaring that the project will never proceed. The Congress claims that nearly 50,000 tribal families could face displacement if the project is implemented.

Despite the Gujarat government's announcement in 2022 that the project was deferred, recent developments have reignited concerns. A statement from the Centre in the Rajya Sabha revealed that a Detailed Project Report (DPR) was prepared in 2017, suggesting ongoing consideration. This has led to renewed protests by tribal communities and Congress leaders.

Tribal Concerns Over Displacement

Congress MLA Anant Patel organised a large gathering of tribals in Dharampur, Valsad district, to protest against the project. He demanded further clarification from the government and insisted on a permanent cancellation declaration. Patel highlighted that if implemented, dams would submerge villages, displacing thousands of tribal people.

Gujarat Congress president Amit Chavda criticised both state and central BJP governments for allegedly trying to take away tribal lands, water, and forests. He pointed out contradictions between state leaders' statements and the Centre's admission in Parliament regarding the project's status.

Call for Government Transparency

The Congress party insists on standing with tribal communities against this project. They demand transparency from the government, urging it to issue a white paper confirming that the project is permanently shelved. Chavda emphasised that despite previous announcements of scrapping, the Centre's written reply indicates it remains on a non-priority list but not cancelled.

Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel had previously announced in May 2022 that the project was scrapped following protests over potential displacement. However, recent statements have left room for future prioritisation, causing concern among affected communities.

The Congress continues to press for assurances from the government to protect tribal interests. They seek a formal declaration in Parliament ensuring that this project will not be pursued now or in future.

With inputs from PTI