Pune district, are set to resume next week as the district administration schedules crucial talks with dissenting villagers.
This move comes after recent clashes between law enforcement and local communities earlier this month led to an indefinite postponement of the drone survey intended for land assessment across seven villages – Kumbharvalan, Pargaon, Khanwadi, Ekhatpur, Munjwadi, Udachiwadi, and Vapuri – earmarked for the ambitious aviation infrastructure. The upcoming meeting, convened following directives from the State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, signifies a renewed commitment to addressing the concerns of the villagers who are resisting the land acquisition process. The primary objective of this dialogue is to engage directly with the affected communities, understand their grievances related to the proposed land transfer, and collaboratively explore a path forward for the much-anticipated airport project.
Earlier, Minister Bawankule had personally met with some of the protesting farmers, urging them to reconsider their stance and assuring them of the “best possible land deal.” While firmly stating that the airport’s development is a definitive policy decision with no possibility of reversal, the minister also indicated the state government’s willingness to consider a revised compensation package following thorough deliberations. He explicitly mentioned the government’s intent to offer a fair and beneficial deal to the farmers, even suggesting potential adjustments to existing land acquisition laws to achieve a mutually agreeable solution. Bawankule further addressed the issue of misinformation circulating on social media platforms regarding compensation rates, acknowledging that this has created confusion and apprehension among the farming communities. He sought to reassure the villagers, asserting that the government’s formal offer would be transparent, equitable, and ultimately advantageous, expressing his belief that it would persuade the farmers to extend their support to the crucial airport project.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to an inclusive and participatory approach, the BJP leader emphasised their openness to all constructive suggestions. 1 He extended an invitation to the protesting farmers to engage in a direct dialogue, stating, “We are open to all suggestions. 2 Let’s sit across the table, resolve this deadlock, and open the doors of development in the region.” This proactive step towards direct engagement underscores the administration’s recognition of the need to build consensus and address the legitimate concerns of the local communities to ensure the successful implementation of this significant infrastructure project, which holds the potential to catalyse economic growth and enhance connectivity for the entire Pune region. The outcome of these upcoming talks will be closely watched as it will likely determine the future pace and nature of this critical development initiative.
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