Farmers celebrate, seek withdrawal of cases against them

The court stalled the project stating that it would have adverse effect on environment and water bodies. The project turned out to be a key poll issue as more than 15,000 acres of fertile farm lands of farmers would be affected if the project is implemented. Even though protest broke out after the land acquisition process began, it continued withpolice security.

The farmers, who were happy after the verdict, celebrated by distributing sweets and by bursting crackers. Farmers vowed that they wouldn’t allow implementation of the project at any cost and would resort to protests if the government goes for an appeal.

“Farmers found recourse through court only because the State government failed to heed our pleas. The government shouldn’t go for an appeal and let us live by doing agriculture,” said Kavitha, a farmer from Salem.

All India Farmers Association state secretary Chandramohan said that the verdict has infused confidence among the voters. “The government should withdraw more than 265 cases booked against farmers, who protested over the issue,” he said.

Meanwhile, a section of farmers from Salem and Dharmapuri district, who were affected by the Chennai-Salem eight lane project met PMK Youth Wing leader Anbumani Ramadoss, who was also one of the litigants in the case, and thanked him for his support to the farmers.

“We spent several sleepless nights due to the project. Anbumani fought for us and ensured that we get the justice,” said Sivakaami, a farmer from Ramalingapuram village nearDharmapuri.