Farmers' Anger Erupts in Agra Amidst Severe Cold. They have been demanding compensation for their land for 15 years, but have received nothing so far. On Monday afternoon, farmers blocked the Agra Inner Ring Road.
Agra: Despite the severe cold in Agra, farmers' anger has boiled over. Frustrated by the atrocities of the Development Authority and the silence of the state government, farmers blocked the Agra Inner Ring Road at 3 pm on Monday. The farmers allege that they have been demanding compensation for their land for 15 years, but have not received any compensation yet. This road connects the Agra-Lucknow Expressway and the Yamuna Expressway, causing thousands of tourists to be affected by the traffic jam.
Active Participation of Women and Children
Women and children also participated in this farmers' movement. They took to the streets with sticks in their hands and chanted slogans vehemently. The protestors lay down on the road, demanding either a meeting with the Chief Minister or the return of their land. The movement disrupted traffic on both expressways for approximately four and a half hours.
Farmers Demand Return of Land
In 2009-10, the Agra Development Authority acquired 444 hectares of land in several villages including Raipur, Rahankalan, and Etmadpur Madra, but the farmers did not receive a single rupee in compensation. Consequently, the farmers decided to stage a protest. The MLA and other administrative officials have continuously stated that the government is considering the issue, but this consideration has not concluded to this day.
Assurance of Dialogue from Administration
Farmers remained at the protest site on Monday as well. The administration assured the farmers that they would be facilitated to meet with the Chief Minister, but no progress was made. Subsequently, efforts were made for a dialogue between the administrative officials and the farmers. Late in the evening, DM Arvind Mallappa Bangari held discussions with the farmers, following which the farmers agreed to clear one lane.
DM Confirms: Decision Possible at Government Level
The DM stated that the ADA had sent a proposal to the government on August 14 to return the land to the farmers, but a decision on this can only be taken at the government level. The farmers say that if the land is not returned, they will plow the road and not leave.
Farmers' Dissatisfied Response
The farmers' anger is escalating and they say that if the Chief Minister does not have time, they will continue their fight for their rights on the road. This movement could become a major challenge for the government if the situation worsens further.
