Farmers from the Southern Tamil Nadu Farmers Association gathered in L. Karungulam on Sunday to voice their concerns over inadequate compensation related to the land acquisition for the ongoing highway expansion project. This initiative, aimed at improving the Ramanathapuram-Paramakudi route, has left many local farmers feeling overlooked and undervalued.
M. Malaichamy, the secretary of the association, emphasized that although the highway project commenced back in 2017, many farmers have yet to receive the compensation they are entitled to under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. “More than half of the affected farmers have not received any compensation, despite the legal guarantees,” he stated, highlighting the urgency of their demands.
The farmers’ protest underscores a growing frustration at the perceived delay and bureaucratic hurdles in the compensation process, which has left them in a precarious financial situation. Many of the farmers depend heavily on their land for their livelihood, making this issue particularly pressing. With the development of infrastructure projects, the rights and welfare of affected farmers should be a priority, yet many feel that their voices are being ignored.
As the protest gained momentum, local representatives and officials were urged to take immediate action to resolve the compensation disparities. The farmers are calling for transparency and accountability in the acquisition process to ensure they are fairly compensated for their land, which is vital for their livelihood.
The broader concerns raised by the farmers resonate with a significant number of residents in Southern Tamil Nadu who similarly feel disenfranchised by development initiatives that do not adequately address the needs of the community. As the highway project progresses, it remains crucial for authorities to engage in meaningful dialogue with local farmers and address their grievances.
The protest in L. Karungulam is not just a local issue; it reflects a larger trend of farmers across India advocating for their rights amid rapid infrastructure development. As more such protests arise, it highlights the need for policymakers to balance development with the welfare of agricultural communities.
As this story unfolds, the call for urgent action reverberates through the region, demanding that farmers receive the justice and compensation they deserve, reinforcing the necessity of fair practices in land acquisition. The Southern Tamil Nadu Farmers Association stands firm in its resolve to continue fighting for the rights of farmers, emphasizing that their futures depend on the outcomes of these critical negotiations.
The story of these farmers is a reminder that behind every infrastructure project, there are human lives affected by the impacts of development decisions. Moving forward, it is essential for all stakeholders to collaborate and seek equitable solutions that uphold the rights and dignity of farmers in Southern Tamil Nadu.
Original Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Madurai/ramanathapuram-farmers-protest-for-fair-compensation-in-highway-expansion-project/article70909409.ece
Category : Madurai
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Publish Date: 2026-04-26 21:33:00
