Ahmedabad-Mumbai Bullet Train: Angry farmers to meet JICA

Farmers in Gujarat opposing Ahmedabad-Mumbai Bullet Train project said they would soon meet local officials of Japan International Cooperation Agency, which enables assistance for overseas projects. JICA is funding Rs 1.08 lakh crore Bullet Train project in India.

Farmers under the aegis of Gujarat Khedut Samaj are protesting against land acquisition under the project siting violation of human rights and harm to local environment. About a month ago Gujarat Khedut Samaj had written to JICA and appraised it about their objections. It had also sought a time for meeting with officials of JICA.

Close to 2,500 farmers of 192 villages stand to lose land. Of these, close to 1,200 farmers have submitted affidavits in Gujarat HC saying they do not intend to part with their land for the project. Anand Yagnik, advocate of GKS said JICA has replied that it is ready to meet local farmers at mutually convenient date and time, respecting the legal process under relevant laws in India. "It is understood that the matter is sub-judice with a number of petitions being filed in Hon'ble HC of Gujarat on behalf of affected farmers." said the letter by JICA.