Farmers in the city and Greater Noida who are demanding developed plots from the government intensified their demonstration on Thursday and marched in the direction of the Parliament. From the Delhi-Noida Chilla border, the farmers marched towards the Parliament, voicing their demands for increased compensation among other things. Farmers on Thursday gathered outside the offices of the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and the NTCP in Noida Sector 24, demanding 10% of abadi land under the banners of Sanyukt Kisan Morcha and Akhil Bhartiya Kisan Sabha.
Speaking about the protest march, a farmer said, “Nobody listens to us, what should we do. It seems that we have been protesting for over 5 years now. We will take what is in our rights. We are not asking for anything extra, we are asking for what has already been passed. It is our right for the 10 per cent of abadi land.”
In view of the farmers’ protest march, security had been stepped up at the Delhi-Noida and Chilla borders earlier in the day.
According to a police official, Section 144 has been imposed, and all the borders have been sealed for 24 hours. Heavy security has been deployed at all borders.
Speaking about the demonstration, Shivhari Meena, the Additional CP (L&O) and DIG for Noida, stated, “Section 144 has been imposed & all the borders have been sealed for 24 hours.” strong security measures in place at all borders. Plans have been put in place to ensure that the populace has no problems. There is more security now. We’ve had conversations with the farmers. Every car is being inspected.” Farmers convened a mahapanchayat at the Noida Authority office earlier in December 2023. Since 1997, farmers have insisted on receiving 10% of abadi plots or similar payment for the land that was taken from them.
Consequently, in January 2021, the Authority sent a letter to the government in line with the farmers’ demands. Reminders were sent in March and October 2022 and in March 2023.
The Greater Noida Authority in December 2023 had approved 10 per cent residential plots for farmers on developed land. Officials had then said they would further seek the state government’s approval.
