New Delhi (Agency): In a recent turn of events, more than 20 protesters were arrested after staging a demonstration at Mantralaya, the state secretariat building in south Mumbai. The protesters were part of an action committee representing people impacted by the Upper Wardha dam project in the Amravati district. They were demanding an increase in land compensation and the provision of government jobs for those affected by the project.
The demonstration took place around 3:30 pm, according to official reports. Protesters carrying placards and chanting slogans walked onto a safety net that has been installed in the premises of the Mantralaya building to prevent suicides. Police personnel, including officers, tried to pull them off the net, eventually detaining over 20 individuals.
The Upper Wardha dam project, located at Morshi in Amravati district, has been a point of contention for locals who have seen their land acquired for its construction. “The protesters demanded an increase in the compensation for land acquired for the dam and sought government jobs for the project-affected people,” said an official involved in the situation.
The incident highlights the increasing tension between development projects and local communities who feel they bear the brunt of such initiatives without adequate compensation or benefits. While governments often argue that such projects are necessary for the greater good, those who are directly affected see it as a loss of their livelihood and demand tangible benefits in return.
The arrested protesters were detained by the Marine Drive police, who were responsible for maintaining order during the demonstration. It remains unclear what charges, if any, will be levied against the detained individuals.