Farmers Raise Objections Over Sadhugram Land
The proposed land acquisition for Sadhugram ahead of Nashik-Trimbakeshwar Kumbh Mela 2027 has faced opposition from farmers in the Nandur and Takli areas of Nashik.
The administration has started the process of temporarily acquiring around 1,000 acres of land for Sadhugram. Farmers, represented by the Sadhugram Farmers Action Committee, have objected to the proposal, citing concerns over their agricultural land, livelihoods and previous land acquisitions.
The issue has also reached the High Court. Following the court's directions, a hearing on the objections raised by affected farmers has begun before Additional Tehsildar Amol Nikam.
Key Highlights
- Farmers have opposed the proposed Sadhugram land acquisition.
- Around 1,000 acres are being considered for temporary acquisition.
- The matter has been taken to the High Court.
- Authorities have begun hearing farmers' objections and documents.
- Around 1,618 acres are proposed for the Sadhugram area for Kumbh Mela 2027.
Farmers Submit Documents During Hearing
During the hearing, farmers presented documents related to land ownership, agricultural use, family livelihoods and their objections to the proposed acquisition.
The Sadhugram Farmers Action Committee has questioned the need to acquire fertile agricultural land for the Kumbh. Farmers have also raised concerns about land that was acquired or used for various development projects in the past.
According to the farmers, compensation for some earlier acquisitions remains pending. They have therefore sought clarity on outstanding payments before further land is taken for the upcoming Kumbh.
Court Directs Status Quo Until Further Hearing
The farmers approached the High Court against the proposed acquisition. Following the proceedings, the court directed that the objections of the affected landowners be heard.
The administration has stated that the existing situation will be maintained until the hearing process is completed. Officials have also said that the valuation of the land and the issues raised before the court will be considered within the applicable legal framework.
1,618 Acres Proposed for Sadhugram
The proposed Sadhugram for the 2027 Kumbh Mela covers approximately 1,618 acres.
Of this, around 318 acres in the Tapovan area are reserved for Sadhugram and are proposed for permanent acquisition. Another approximately 1,250 acres may be acquired temporarily for the event.
The larger Sadhugram area is planned to provide accommodation and camping space for sadhus and Mahants arriving from different parts of the country.
Concerns Over Agricultural Land
Farmers have also referred to the experience of the 2015 Kumbh Mela, when agricultural land was used for Sadhugram.
According to the farmers, they were assured that the land would be restored for agricultural use after the event. They claim that construction materials such as gravel, stone, cement and pipes were not completely removed from some plots, affecting their subsequent agricultural use.
The farmers are therefore concerned that another large-scale acquisition of fertile and irrigated land could result in long-term losses for agricultural families.
The administration is now hearing the objections and assessing the issues raised by landowners as the preparations for Nashik Kumbh Mela 2027 continue.