Farmers urged authorities to return their land if it is not being utilized for the purpose for which it was acquired. During a public hearing on Wednesday, a group of land losers and farmer leaders opposed Jindal Company’s plan to set up a Cold Rolled Grain-Oriented Steel plant at the KIADB industrial area near Kudithini.
The land was originally acquired for a steel project proposed by industrialist Lakshmi Mittal. Later, a portion of it was developed by KIADB and allotted to Jindal.
Strongly objecting to the move, farmers insisted their land be given back if unused, or that they be provided with higher compensation. Protesters also attempted to disrupt the proceedings. Bellary MP E Tukaram, who tried to calm them, lost his temper and remarked that grievances should instead be directed at Janardhan Reddy, whom he held responsible for the situation.