VALPOI
Stepping up their opposition to the proposed IIT project at Shel-Melauli, a large number of people protested outside the Guleli panchayat office and demanded a special Gram Sabha to discuss the project.
A delegation of protestors also confronted Guleli Sarpanch Apporva Chari, Secretary Mulla Varak and other panch members in the matter.
The protestors claimed that the State government has been trying to enforce the project in the area without taking into account the sentiments of people in the area, thereby causing anger in the village.
“There will be opposition in the future as well. Therefore, no matter how hard the government tries, the project will not be supported at any level in this area,” warned Shubham Shivolkar.
The protestors also sought to know what documents had been submitted by Guleli Panchayat regarding the project.
“Provide detailed information in this regard and by convening a special Gram Sabha regarding the project, the information should be made available to residents of the village,’ added Shivolkar.
Responding to demands from protestors that since people are objecting to the project, the panchayat should also write to the IIT objecting to the project, Sarpanch Apoorva Chari and Panchayat Secretary Mula Varak reportedly assured to consider such a letter to the IIT by September 3.
The proposed IIT project at Shel-Melauli has been embroiled in controversy since the past few months. While groups have been formed to support and oppose the project, those opposing the project have held meetings at various levels and a signature campaign has also been launched against the project.
The protestors submitted a memorandum containing signatures collected during the signature campaign to the Guleli panchayat on Monday.
Responding to demands for a special Gram Sabha to discuss the project, Chari and Varak informed the delegation that the panchayat would take a decision in the matter.
