Khuga Dam JAC knocks at Delhi's door again
Source: The Sangai Express / Ninglun Hanghal
New Delhi, June 20 2011:
Six months after its inauguration, the Joint Action Committee on Khuga Dam is back in Delhi to pursue its demand for an expert team to investigate the execution of the project.
In petitions submitted to the Deputy Chairman of Planning Commission Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Union Minister for Water Resources and Minority Affairs, Salman Khurshid the JAC demanded for immediate release of water for irrigation for the villagers.
It also demanded a 1.5 mega watt electricity for the people of Churachandpur district and added that the due payment of compensation and rehabilitation of effected villagers should be cleared.
The officials of the two office, Planning Commission and Water Resource Ministry met the JAC team assured that the case of the JAC will be taken up soon.
The team is currently camped in the capital to seek appointment with other Central leaders as well and file a complaint to the National Human Rights Commission.
Speaking to The Sangai Express , the JAC led by Chairman Lalpu Hangshing said that they have met Central leaders earlier as well, but there has been no response from the State Government.
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The JAC stated that as the Khuga Dam has been inaugurated, it should begin to provide water for irrigation which is required at this time of the year.
If the Khuga Dam is not ready to provide its benefits, the JAC team argued that all the land that had been acquired for the construction of the Dam should be given back so that villagers can resume farming and use their land for other purposes.
The team mentioned that no water has been released from the canal for fear of breaching and cracks in the canal walls.
Till today no visitor were allowed to see the Dam , which the JAC said is to "cover up" the sub standard work.
The team feel that Khuga Dam is a case of "corruption" and that CBI has should be called in to investigate the matter.