Bengaluru: Union Minister and JD(S) leader H.D. Kumaraswamy on Sunday assured farmers affected by the NICE integrated road project that he would stand by them and work to protect their land.
Hundreds of residents from Madavara, Srikanthapura, Anchepalya, Thotadaguddadahalli and Thammenahalli met Kumaraswamy and submitted grievances concerning the project.
Farmers from the affected villages expressed concern over the possible loss of agricultural and residential land that has been with their families for generations.
Kumaraswamy alleged that the state government was acting in coordination with the NICE company to take over farmers’ land. He said the concerns of affected landowners would be examined and appropriate steps taken to safeguard their interests.
“I stand with the farmers. There is no question of allowing even an inch of their land to be taken away,” Kumaraswamy said while assuring the gathering.
He added that he would study the issues raised by the affected villagers and pursue measures necessary to protect their rights.
MLC T.N. Javarayagowda, former MLC E. Krishnappa, Greater Bengaluru JD(S) president H.M. Ramesh Gowda and other party leaders attended the meeting along with farmers and residents affected by the NICE project.
