DC’s intervention ends day-and-night protest of villagers

Mangaluru: Residents of Jokatte, Kalavaru, and Kenjaru, who were allegedly affected by pollution from the coke and sulfur plant of the MRPL, ended their day-and-night protest after eight days, following a decision made in a high-level meeting at the deputy commissioner’s office. Dakshina Kannada district administration has decided to complete land acquisition process for the green zone within a set timeframe.

The meeting, chaired by deputy commissioner Darshan HV on Monday, included Dakshina Kannada MP Capt Brijesh Chowta, MLA Umanath Kotian, officials of MRPL and others.

It was resolved in the meeting that the legal process of land acquisition should be completed within six months. Land acquisition should be conducted through KIADB instead of direct purchase. Since the measurement of land, property, trees, and valuation has already been conducted, all related processes will be carried out simultaneously to complete within six months. Villagers losing homes and plots should prepare and correct their documents. KIADB officials will provide the necessary document list to the protest committee.

Muneer Katipalla, convenor, Nagarika Horata Samiti, Jokatte, said that the action committee had placed several demands before the district administration. Demands include completion of land acquisition within six months; package for land losers, including a minimum of 18 months’ house rent among others. Muneer said these demands were urged to be considered appropriately, and the meeting concluded satisfactorily.

“Based on district administration’s meeting decisions, a meeting of the villagers was held at the protest site, and the indefinite protest was withdrawn. The meeting concluded with a decision to resume the protest more vigorously if justice is not served,” he said.