Villagers in Sangrur allege influential persons to benefit

Villagers whose land is to be acquired for construction of the Sangrur bypass have now sought central intervention alleging bungling in deciding the acquisition and tender for the work. They say more than 300 farmers will be affected if their land is acquired.

The Sangrur bypass is part of the 166 Km stretch of national highway-64 from Patiala to Bathinda and is to be built at a cost of 2,007 crores. however, villagers whose land is to be acquired for the bypass have moved a complaint before the Chief Justice of India, Central Vigilance Commission and the CBI.They have alleged bungling in deciding on the path for the acquisition and allotment of tenders. This, they add, has been done to benefit some influential persons.

They also claim that more than 300 farmers and their families will be adversely affected if their land is acquired. Sangrur villagers say that their voice has gone unheard and they will be left homeless if the government acquires their land.

The Punjab government officials, however, have denied the allegations, saying that all proper procedures have been adopted.