Only 45 farmers accept WB govt's Singur package

SINGUR (WB): The West Bengal government on Monday extended by two days the offer of 10 per cent enhanced rehabilitation package for the over 2,000 farmers, who were unwilling to part with their land for Tata Motors' Nano car project, with only 45 accepting the earlier offer till date.
 
Hooghly District Magistrate Neelam Meena said that the government has extended the last date for accepting the new package by farmers by two more days.
 
District officials said only 45 cheques have been issued to farmers while there were over 2,000 who have not as yet accepted the new package.
 
The West Bengal government had on September 14 advertised the fresh economic package in newspapers, offering 50 per cent additional compensation to those who had willingly given their land or were unwilling to do so.
 
Besides, those affected would be eligible to 300 days wages at National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) rate, subject to verification of residence status.
 
A day later, addressing a mammoth 'pro-Nano' rally organised by the Left Front at Singur, its chairman Biman Bose said all those who had not taken compensation would be entitled to an additional 10 per cent more, if they took their cheques within September 22.