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AHMEDABAD: Farmers in Gujarat organized protests against the proposed land acquisition for the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR). Their primary concerns centered around inadequate compensation for their lands and fears of displacement from their ancestral properties. The protesting farmers called for fair market-based compensation, clear communication from authorities, and meaningful dialogue with government representatives to address their grievances. Dholera SIR, envisioned as a major smart city under the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor, has encountered repeated objections from local farmers despite official reassurances. Government authorities noted that while they would consider the concerns raised, the project’s overall timeline would remain unchanged.

Protests saw participation from farmers across nearby villages who gathered with banners, demanding that compensation reflect the present market value of their fertile lands. Many pointed out that farming is their sole livelihood, and being forced to leave would result in economic hardship for their families. Some farmer leaders stated they had received incomplete information about the land acquisition process, increasing confusion and mistrust within the community. The farmers requested open public consultations and community involvement before advancing further with the project.

Additionally, environmental groups supported the protests, voicing worries about groundwater depletion and the environmental consequences of the project. Farmers reiterated that while development is important, it should not jeopardize their right to livelihood, and they urged the government to explore alternatives that safeguard the interests of farmers while also advancing the objectives of Dholera SIR.