Greater Noida: Plans to develop New Noida have triggered opposition among farmers from Gautam Buddh Nagar and Bulandshahr, with representatives of 50 villages coming together at a mahapanchayat to press for their demands.
Farmers attending the gathering warned that they would oppose the project if their concerns were not addressed. They resolved to continue their movement until concrete decisions were taken on compensation-related benefits, village settlement issues and employment opportunities.
What Are the Farmers Demanding?
Farmers from 13 villages in Gautam Buddh Nagar and 37 villages in Bulandshahr participated in the mahapanchayat. Their key demands included plots at the rate of ₹20,000 per square yard, resolution of pending issues concerning village residential areas, and employment opportunities for local youth.
Participants argued that while urban development plans are being prepared using their land, the interests and future of the families giving up that land must also be protected.
Farmers Question Their Stake in Development
The farmers maintained that development should not be limited to acquiring agricultural land and building a new urban centre. They called for clear assurances regarding the rights and long-term interests of affected families, adding that their concerns should receive priority in the planning process.
Protest to Continue Until Demands Are Addressed
The mahapanchayat declared that farmers would not give up their land until their demands were considered and concrete decisions were made. They also warned that their opposition to the New Noida project would continue.
The gathering highlighted the collective position of farmers across the 50 villages. The next steps will depend on the response from the government and administration, as well as any future discussions with farmers’ representatives.
