Bethora sarpanch under pressure? IIT opponents demand answers

PONDA
Agitating locals have demanded a special gram sabha to discuss the IIT project proposed at Codar-Bethora within four days, failing which they have threatened to protest outside the Bethora panchayat office and outside the residence of the sarpanch.
Speaking to media persons after villagers had gathered to offer prayers in a temple, Dnyaneshwar Khandeparkar claimed all villagers of Bethora are opposed to the proposed IIT project.
“This IIT project is not beneficial to the locals in any way. The sarpanch may have come under pressure from political leaders. He should clarify his stand regarding the IIT project, failing which he will have to face the wrath of villagers,” warned Khandeparkar.
“The villagers had submitted a memorandum signed by 800 villagers to the panchayat, requesting the sarpanch to convene a special Gram Sabha on the IIT issue.”
“The panchayat secretary has completed his formalities in this regard. However, according to the information received, the sarpanch has not signed the gram sabha notice yet. If a special gram sabha is not held on September 28, a protest will be held at the sarpanch's house first and later, a bigger protest will be held in front of the gram panchayat office.”
Devendra Chari said a decision had been taken in the fortnightly meeting of the panchayat regarding a special gram sabha.
“As a villager, I was present at that meeting. If there is pressure on the sarpanch, the gram sabha should be convened under the chairmanship of the deputy sarpanch or another panch member. It is time for him to say who is pressuring him not to convene the gram sabha,” said Chari.