Farmers clashed with police in the Gohana area of Sonipat district, Haryana. The cultivators protested the installation of an oil pipeline by the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). The farmers, dissatisfied with the compensation offered for land impacted by the pipeline, attempted to block the project. In response, police intervened to disperse the protesters, which led to the detention of 47 farmers. A Mahapanchayat has been called by the farmers today, aiming to strategize their next steps. The district police, along with state authorities, are closely monitoring the situation.
Rising Farmer Discontent Over Pipeline Compensation
The ongoing conflict stems from the compensation amount set for farmers whose fields are affected by the pipeline installation. According to reports, IOC has offered a compensation package for land use; however, many farmers deem this amount insufficient. The farmers have been vocal in their demand for a fair compensation, comparable to amounts awarded in similar cases in other districts.
When the authorities did not meet these demands, the farmers began protesting, blocking pipeline work and chanting slogans against the oil company. Notably, both men and women have actively participated in the protest. The police’s attempt to remove protesters by force resulted in the temporary detention of 47 farmers.
Farmers' Call for Equal Compensation
One of the main grievances voiced by Gohana’s farmers is the disparity in compensation amounts. Farmers claim they have been offered Rs 4 lakh, while farmers in Panipat reportedly received Rs 10 lakh for similar pipeline projects. The protesters insist that they deserve similar treatment and have stated they will not permit pipeline construction until the compensation amount is increased.
Today's Mahapanchayat, scheduled to take place in Kohla, will serve as a platform for farmers to determine their next course of action. Leaders at the protest have emphasized that they are ready to intensify their resistance if fair compensation is not provided.
Farmer Leaders Stand Firm: "We Will Not Back Down"
Ravi Azad, a prominent farmer leader, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the current compensation arrangement, alleging discrimination in the allocation process. He announced that large numbers of farmers are converging on Kohla for the Mahapanchayat, where they intend to discuss further actions. Azad stated that the authorities are unjustly repressing their movement, but the farmers are determined to stand their ground until their demands are met.
Authorities on High Alert Amidst Protests
Gohana ACP Rishikant addressed the situation, noting that the company responsible for laying the oil pipeline had requested police protection due to the escalating protests. Acting on instructions from the duty magistrate, the police took action to ensure the work could proceed, but they have urged protesters to uphold public order. The ACP warned that strict measures will be taken against any attempts to disrupt law and order.
As the Mahapanchayat convenes today, both farmers and authorities brace for further developments in this escalating dispute.
(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)
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