Motorbike Protest: MP Congress Chief Joins Fight for Tribal Rights

In a bold move, Madhya Pradesh Congress chief Jitu Patwari reached the Ken-Betwa Link Project site on Tuesday, advocating for tribal families displaced by the development. Travelling by motorcycle amid heavy police presence and administrative hurdles, Patwari demonstrated solidarity with the protesters.

At the Chhatarpur Dhoudhan Dam, Patwari challenged the government's stance, arguing against the forest department's claims that their visit would disturb local wildlife. He criticized authorities for halting opposition leaders while allowing construction within the tiger reserve, thus raising questions about the fairness of the operations.

The protesters, demanding Rs 12.5 lakh as compensation similar to arrangements in other regions, have linked the struggle to broader issues of land, water, and cultural dignity. Patwari accused the administration of ignoring constitutional mandates for rehabilitation. Meanwhile, the protest's intensity has surged, with calls for the release of arrested leader Amit Bhatnagar.

(With inputs from agencies.)