SAD, Cong unite against irregularities in land pooling scheme

Mohali: The Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) has alleged that the Punjab govt's land pooling scheme is being misused, claiming that fertile agricultural land is being acquired and transferred at undervalued rates under the pretext of development.Interestingly, Congress mayor Amarjit Singh Sidhu was also seen sitting in the SAD rally in Mohali, supporting the farmers and opposing the AAP-led govt on the issue. Addressing protesting farmers outside the PUDA Bhawan in Phase 8, Mohali, SAD district president Parvinder Singh Sohana said the scheme, which is being projected as beneficial for farmers, is instead harming their interests. He alleged that the policy is facilitating the sale of valuable land at low prices and raised concerns over possible financial irregularities. Farmers from nearly 24 villages have been protesting against the proposed acquisition of their land. Angered by the move to transfer land for development projects, several farmers have launched an agitation, with seven of them beginning a relay hunger strike as part of the protest. Sohana criticised the state govt, alleging that instead of focusing on public welfare, it is acting in a manner that benefits private interests. He further claimed that development in already acquired areas remains incomplete, pointing out that basic infrastructure such as roads, water supply, and sewerage systems is still lacking in a large number of developed sectors and colonies. He stated that continued acquisition of agricultural land could have long-term consequences on the region's socio-economic and geographical balance. He added that farmers are unlikely to accept policies that, according to them, threaten their livelihoods. Several farmer representatives and local leaders, including Karamjit Singh Mauli, Gurkripal Singh Sidhu, Shamsher Singh Purkhalvi, and others, were present at the protest site and extended their support to the ongoing agitation. The protesting farmers have demanded that the govt reconsider the land pooling policy and hold consultations with stakeholders before proceeding further.