Is There No Intention to Upset Farmers? MP CM Responds to Land Pooling Controversy in Ujjain

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The MP government aims to engage farmers in discussions regarding the land pooling scheme.
- Development for the Simhastha Mela is a priority, but farmer welfare is also at stake.
- Protests are set to occur, highlighting the tension between the government and farming communities.
- Environmental impacts of land acquisition are a significant concern among farmers.
- A clear balance between development and farmer rights is essential for sustainable progress.
Bhopal, Sep 15 (NationPress) As opposition mounts against the land pooling initiative in Ujjain for the upcoming Simhastha-2028, Madhya Pradesh's Chief Minister Mohan Yadav addressed the media on Monday, stating that the state government is committed to engaging with farmers to find a resolution.
The Chief Minister emphasized that the BJP-led government is taking actions that consider the welfare of all communities.
Yadav reiterated, "I have no intention to upset farmers; however, it's crucial that development remains on track." He added, "We are currently discussing the land pooling policy with farmers, and our goal has always been to support their interests. The government is open to further dialogue if concerns arise."
Additionally, Yadav clarified that the ongoing development in Ujjain, in anticipation of the Simhastha, will proceed unaffected.
"A significant influx of devotees is expected for the Simhastha Mela in Ujjain, prompting the initiation of various projects," he noted.
This statement comes just ahead of a major protest by the Bharatiya Kisan Morcha (BKM) against the land pooling policy, which involves the Ujjain Development Authority acquiring farmers' properties.
The Karni Sena, a social group representing the Kshatriya community, has also voiced its support for the protest scheduled for September 16 in Ujjain and September 18 in Indore.
Farmers from over 20 villages in Ujjain and Indore are anticipated to join the protest.
The land pooling scheme entails the acquisition of agricultural land for commercial purposes.
Approximately 2,380 hectares are targeted for acquisition in preparation for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela slated for 2028.
Farmers' groups assert that nearly 5,000 farmers could face dire consequences, impacting around 35,000 to 40,000 dependent family members who risk losing their livelihoods if their lands are taken.
Concerns have been raised regarding the proposed 40 feet, 60 feet, 80 feet, and 1,100 feet roads in the Simhastha region, which they claim could be detrimental to farmer interests.
They also warn that implementing this scheme could result in severe environmental harm due to the felling of thousands of trees.