TV
In a dramatic turn of events, a couple in Keonjhar district has accused officials of denying them rightful compensation for land acquired for a government canal project in 2021.
The aggrieved husband-wife duo from Kainipura village under Ghasipura block staged a protest outside the Anandpur Salapada Water Resources Division office on Wednesday, warning of self-immolation if their grievances are not addressed.
Land Acquired But Payment Still Pending
According to reports, the couple claimed that 11 decimals of ancestral land belonging to the late Banamali Nayak were acquired by the Water Resources Department three years ago.
The land, situated in Kainipura village, was earmarked for the construction of a canal. Sanatan Nayak, grandson of the original owner, claims he submitted all legal heir documents and relevant proofs to the department but has not received any compensation to date.
The family alleges that despite numerous follow-ups with the designated Land Acquisition Officer, Dinesh Nayak, their case has seen no progress.
"They keep harassing me for money and make me go to the Tehsildar or the court as an excuse to delay my matter. Today, they are claiming that the matter will be forwarded to the court. I firmly state that if they do not resolve this issue, we both will take our lives right here,” said Sanatan Nayak.
Symbolic Protest Outside Department Office
Sources added that in a bid to draw attention to their plight, the family demonstrated in front of the Anandpur Salapada division office, holding placards and staging a sit-in. They warned officials that they would resort to extreme measures, including self-immolation, if compensation is further delayed.
As the protest gains traction, pressure is mounting on the district administration to initiate a review and resolve the matter transparently.
However, no official response was issued by the Water Resources Department at the time of filing this report.
