Pune: Chakan Farmers Stand Firm, Demand Just Returns Before Industrial Project in Gonwadi
Chakan MIDC, 23rd January 2024: In a stern warning issued by project-affected farmers in Gonavadi (Khed), Chakan MIDC, companies will not be permitted to commence work until the farmers receive a 15 per cent developed return of land, along with fair valuations of houses and trees based on the current market prices. The demand also extends to the swift return of houses acquired during the land acquisition process.
Farmers affected by the Chakan MIDC project in Ambethan, Gonavadi (Khed), have raised their voices against the initiation of work by companies until they are provided with a 15 per cent developed return on land, fair valuation of houses and trees as per current market prices, and prompt returns on acquired houses.
In a recent development, local citizens halted the commencement of work by companies allotted plots in Chakan MIDC Phase No.5. Expressing their sentiments, the citizens stated that they contributed their lands with the expectation of regional development and employment opportunities for their children. However, they lamented the lack of returns for the past three years.
During the protest, the Director of Sant Tukaram Sugar Factory, Dinesh Mohite, and other farmers accused capitalists of providing immediate and strategic refunds to some, while leaving others waiting for over three years. The demand from the farmers is clear – a 15 per cent return with developed facilities, fair assessment of acquired lands and buildings at current market prices, and immediate distribution of refunds to affected farmers.
Dinesh Mohite Patil, the Director of Sant Tukaram Cooperative Sugar Factory and a representative of the farmers, emphasized the disparity in refund distribution, with some still awaiting payments three years after the initial disbursement. He asserted that work would not be allowed to commence until all farmers receive fair compensation, and the acquired assets are evaluated at current market rates.
