In the first week of June
during the field visit of MPSSS staff to target village Guwali, Phaliya
Bandibar under Jhabua diocese it was shared by the villagers that a mining
corporation from Katni has been trying to illegally encroach upon their land
covering almost 98 hectares since August 2012.
The villagers claim to have
been residing in the area for past 120 – 125 years and have proof of cultivating
this land and of occupancy over the land for past three generations. This land
is their main source of their livelihood and survival. However the area being
rich in mineral resources has always been an attraction to mining corporations.
Last year on false pretext they cordoned off the area under the disposal of the
villagers and started mining there. However there were lots of resentment in
the community and they used to enter in minor clashes. But due to money and
muscle power the mining corporation used to have their way. However with entry
of the Pragati team and familiarization of the concept of people led
development process a sea change is visible in the attitude of the community
members. They united themselves together and took upon the corporation. They
went to Jan Sunvais, met briefed the Higher officials and finally were able to get
them evacuated on February 15 and 16 2013 on the orders of the Collector.
However the smiles on their faces did not last for long on 1st June
2013 during night hours the same company came back and has again cemented their
poles in the area claiming they have license to mine in the area. Further the
villagers have been warned of dire consequences if they dared to come in
between their way. The villagers on the other hand are adamant “come what they
shall not give up their lands”.
The
ball is now in the open court who wins only time will tell but let us join
together and support our fellow brethren in village Guwali to fight for their
rightful claims undeterred.
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