Farmers of Mangal Panchayat Face Uncertainty as Land Acquisition Dispute Lingers

Residents of Mangal Panchayat in Solan district, Himachal Pradesh, are grappling with a complex land acquisition dispute involving the UltraTech Cement Plant Baga. The issue revolves around inadequate compensation offered for their land, lack of clarity on resettlement and rehabilitation plans, and the threat of a forced takeover by the company.

Historical Context:

The JP Cement Plant, established in Mangal Panchayat, was later acquired by the Aditya Birla Group’s UltraTech Cement. In 2008, the government awarded land at a compensation of Rs 4,25,000 per bigha for Awal land and Rs 1,25,000 per bigha for Ghasni land. However, the residents deemed this amount insufficient and challenged it in court, seeking an increase. This case remains undecided.

Following a High Court ruling on November 30, 2023, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Solan was directed to hand over possession of the land to UltraTech within three months. Additionally, the court mandated the decision on Resettlement and Rehabilitation (R&R) plans within six months. However, residents raised concerns, emphasizing that these plans must include fair compensation for land and houses, provision of alternative accommodation, and employment opportunities for affected families.

The residents expressed disappointment with the lack of communication and negotiation regarding fair compensation for their land. They emphasized that the offered amount (Rs 4,25,000 and Rs 1,25,000 per bigha) is insufficient to purchase land or acquire suitable housing elsewhere. Additionally, they criticize the company’s meager deposit of Rs 11 lakh towards R&R, questioning its adequacy in securing alternative housing or facilities.

Further adding to their anxiety, a Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) reportedly threatened a forceful takeover of their land on February 27, 2024, if residents didn’t vacate peacefully. They criticize the administration for failing to ensure the company provides adequate living arrangements or compensation before attempting such action.

The residents appeal to the government and administration to intervene and address their concerns. They seek fair compensation for their land, houses, and plants. A well-defined R&R plan with adequate provisions for alternative housing, facilities, and employment opportunities. Mediation between the company and the residents to reach a mutually agreeable solution.

The land acquisition dispute in Mangal Panchayat highlights the human cost often associated with development projects. 

The residents face an uncertain future due to inadequate compensation, lack of clarity on R&R plans, and the threat of forced displacement. A timely and just resolution involving all stakeholders is crucial to ensure the welfare of these affected families, said Mr Surjit Singh, village Samtyadi, post office Kandhar, tehsil Arki, district Solan.