What Happened at Khandoli Dam in Jharkhand? Villagers Clash with Police Over Land Dispute
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Synopsis
In Giridih, Jharkhand, villagers are protesting illegal land acquisition at Khandoli Dam, threatening mass 'Jal Samadhi.' Their clash with police raises urgent questions about land rights and governmental accountability. How will the authorities respond to their demands?
Key Takeaways
- Villagers are protesting against illegal land acquisition.
- Police clashed with protestors attempting 'Jal Samadhi.'
- JLKM is advocating for the rights of local residents.
- Demands include proper land demarcation and compensation.
- Heightened security measures are in place around the dam.
Giridih (Jharkhand), Sep 8 (NationPress) Tensions escalated at Khandoli Dam in Jharkhand’s Giridih district on Monday as hundreds of villagers protested against what they claimed to be illegal land acquisition. In a dramatic turn of events, these villagers attempted to perform 'Jal Samadhi' (self-drowning) in the dam.
This led to a confrontation with police and officials stationed at the site.
The protest was conducted under the auspices of the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) as part of the ongoing Khandoli Bachao Abhiyan.
Local residents assert that their ancestral and raiyat lands are being unlawfully incorporated into the dam's territory under the pretext of a new demarcation.
Authorities swiftly arrived and rescued several villagers who had begun to wade into the water, escalating the already tense situation and prompting the administration to enhance security around the dam.
The Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) initially acquired the land in 1992 for dam construction, yet the proper demarcation was never conducted. Villagers now contend that their farmland and homes have been incorrectly classified as dam land during the current demarcation process.
“The administration is refusing to provide any documentation. Our land is being seized illegally, without any compensation or rehabilitation,” stated one protestor.
Previously, the protestors had submitted a memorandum to the zonal officer and district administration, outlining eight demands including accurate demarcation of the dam area, restoration of wrongly included raiyat land, compensation for affected families, and rehabilitation for those displaced.
However, they claim that no substantial action has been taken to address their concerns.
Leaders from JLKM have issued a firm ultimatum—should their demands remain unfulfilled within 15 days, a larger mass Jal Samadhi Andolan will be organized at the dam.
In response, the district administration has bolstered the police presence around Khandoli Dam to avert any further escalation.
Point of View
It is crucial to highlight the ongoing tension at Khandoli Dam. While villagers express valid concerns regarding land rights and compensation, the administration must ensure public safety and uphold the rule of law. Both sides need to engage in dialogue to find a resolution that respects property rights and community well-being.
NationPress
08/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the villagers' protest at Khandoli Dam?
The villagers are protesting against alleged illegal land acquisition for the dam, claiming that their ancestral lands are being wrongfully included in the dam area.
What is 'Jal Samadhi'?
'Jal Samadhi' is a form of protest where individuals threaten to drown themselves in water as a means to draw attention to their plight.
Who is leading the protest?
The protest is organized by the Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha (JLKM) as part of the Khandoli Bachao Abhiyan.
What demands have the villagers made?
The villagers have submitted demands for accurate demarcation of the dam land, return of wrongfully included raiyat land, compensation for affected families, and rehabilitation for displaced individuals.
What is the administration's response to the protests?
The district administration has increased police presence around Khandoli Dam to prevent further escalation of the situation.
