In an attempt to end the deadlock between Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and Hatia villagers over a land row, Ranchi deputy commissioner Rajiv Arun Ekka on Monday met representatives of villagers and heard their concerns.

 

The meeting took place a day after no conclusion could be reached between the villagers comprising largely people displaced from Heavy Engineering Corporation (HEC) land and CISF personnel in the presence of district police officials.

 

On Monday, Bugul Mahato led a 25-member delegation representing villagers to meet the DC but the representatives of CISF personnel stayed away.

 

"The DC has asked us to submit the documents and the list of demands on Tuesday," said Mahato. "The DC has assured us that action will be taken as per law. We'll discuss the issue with Cabinet minister Subodh Kant Sahay once he returns to Ranchi," he added.

 

Tension triggered after CISF personnel tried to take possession of 158 acres at Kote village under Jagarnathpur police station on Saturday. Villagers clashed with the CISF personnel and protested the setting up of four tents on the land.

 

HEC has leased out 158 acres to CISF through an agreement with the Central and state governments and HEC.

 

The court has asked for status quo at the land till the case is disposed of. Villagers alleged that despite the court stay, CISF personnel on Saturday tried to acquire the land.

 

"Since the matter is sub judice, we will not allow anyone to take away our land. We have been fighting the case in the court for the last 14 years and we would fight till we get our rights," said Mahato.

 

9 Jun 2009, TNN