What farmers demand and what NHAI promised
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) had informed local farmers that they would get Rs 15 lakh compensation in exchange for their land which would be used to build the highway. Although initially reluctant, the farmers later agreed to part with their land for development purpose.
They, however, insisted that they be given at least Rs 20 lakh compensation per acre. The NHAI too agreed after initially refusing.
History
Explaining the situation, Yaluvahalli Sonnegowda said, when the work on the highway began, the NHAI officers gave Rs 20 lakh per acre to five farmers.
Even as the work was completed, however, the Authority approached the court, alleging the farmers were demanding greater relief amount. They also argued that it was not right of the farmers to demand any compensation, he added.
Altered argument
“Now, the same officers of the NHAI have changed their stand,” the farmer leader alleged.
“They are insisting they had promised Rs 20 lakh compensation to farmers who lost land up to 60 metres on the bypass road and not to farmers who lost merely 15 to 20 metres of land. Their argument, therefore, fails to coincide with their earlier promise,” he explained.
Sonnegowda insisted that the farmers would continue with their struggle till they are given the relief money due to them.
