Mandal-Bechraji SIR: Planning meeting of JAAG and Azad Vikas Sangathan

A-302, Sharan Residency-1, Near Lohana Chhatralaya, Vasna, Ahmedabad

Date: 18^th July 2013

A meeting of JAAG and Azad Vikas Sangathan was held today at village Vanpedi on the issue of the Mandal-Bechraji SIR. In the meeting with the Chief Minister, he CM has promised the leaders of a positive response by 15^th August. However, certain individuals in the business of land dealings are raising a pro-SIR voice and have also gone to Gandhinagar with their demand. In this situation we need to remain alert and continue our efforts to strengthen the local organisation, the Azad Vikas Sangathan, and the movement against the SIR, was the view asserted by the people.

It is also feared that these vested interests may procure the land records of individual farmers directly and forge signatures on resolutions to government. It was thus decided to write to the Mamlatdar that without the farmer making a request in person, no one else should be given the 7/12 records. Despite this if the records are given, however, then the administration will be responsible and the farmers will then be forced to take legal action against the concerned officer.

The other important decision that was taken today was that women would demonstrate in large numbers in village Hansalpur on 24^th July 2013 against those in favour of the SIR.

The other decision taken today was to have a massive public programme on 15^th August 2013. Whether that will be a celebration of victory or another challenge thrown to the government will depend on the response of the government. If the government cancels the SIR and brings the de-commanded areas of Narmada under the command areas then the farmers will have an occasion to rejoice; if the government does not keep its word then the farmers will use this occasion to plan and announce their future programmes.

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Lalji Desai                                                                         Sagar Rabari

On behalf of Jameen Adhikar Aandolan – Gujarat (JAAG)