South Dinajpur Landowners Partially Open Silo Warehouse
In South Dinajpur, landowners have agreed to a temporary solution regarding the silo warehouse, allowing access for a limited time. This decision came after intense negotiations with district authorities and police. However, the concession is set for only two days, and the landowners have indicated that the silo will be locked again unless their demands are addressed.
Details of the Silo Warehouse Agreement
The silo warehouse plays a crucial role in the storage of bulk grains, protecting them from pests and moisture. Presently, approximately 1,300 metric tonnes of foodgrains, designated for the PM Poshan mid-day meal scheme and the public distribution system, are housed in the godown. The ongoing protests have also stalled a goods train loaded with foodgrains.
Protesters’ Conditions and Demands
After two rounds of meetings with senior administration officials, the landowners agreed to permit the unloading of the stranded goods train, but restricted access to the silo itself. Only a temporary resolution has been achieved.
- 40 trucks were deployed to clear the goods train.
- No foodgrains were released from the silo, indicating unresolved issues.
Madan Ekka, a representative of the protesting landowners, expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s proposed solutions. Initially promised employment, the landowners are now being offered compensation in the form of vehicles instead of jobs.
Landowners’ Compensation Demands
The landowners are demanding compensation of Rs 50 lakh each, which they claim exceeds the project’s total cost. They seek re-evaluation of their lands at market rates instead of the employment opportunities initially promised.
Superintendent of Police Chinmay Mittal stated that talks are ongoing to resolve the landowners’ concerns, emphasizing that all issues are being addressed.
As the situation develops, attention remains on the condition of the silo godown and the future resolutions that may arise from the ongoing negotiations.
