CPI(ML) stir today over land compensation in Pirpainti

Patna: The CPI(ML) and its farmers’ wing, Kisan Sabha, will hold statewide protests on Monday, pressing for fair compensation for farmers whose land was acquired for a thermal power project under Pirpainti block in Bhagalpur district.The protests follow a spot inquiry by a CPI(ML) team comprising MLA Rambali Singh Yadav, Kisan Sabha leader Shivsagar Sharma, Rajendra Patel, Ara MP Sudama Prasad, and other district leaders.Addressing reporters on Sunday, Yadav said the state govt had acquired 1,050 acres of land from 1,200 farmers in 76 villages and hamlets back in 2010. The land was later leased to industrialist Gautam Adani for 33 years at a token rate of Re 1 for setting up a 2,400 MW thermal power plant. The govt will buy power generated by the plant at Rs 6.75 per unit, he said.Yadav alleged that while farmers received some compensation for the acquired land, the amount was inadequate and no payment was made for the nearly 10 lakh trees that will be felled. Most affected are small and marginal farmers, he added.He also flagged anomalies in the compensation process, which have persisted for 14 years, and demanded proper payment, environmental safeguards, and job opportunities for locals. Yadav warned that police and the district administration should not use force against farmers if they raise their demands peacefully.