H.D. Deve Gowda, MP and Janata Dal (Secular) supremo, has alleged that the amendment to Land Acquisition Bill introduced by the Narendra Modi-government at the Centre will only benefit foreign investors at the cost of poor farmers.
Speaking to presspersons here on Monday, Mr. Gowda said that during the United Progressive Alliance-rule, many BJP leaders, including Arun Jaitley, had opposed the Yamuna Express project by stating that it would affect many farmers. However, the same people had brought in amendments to the Land Acquisition Act to suit the investors and penalise farmers. “Foreign companies reap all benefits here and cheat poor farmers. That is what happened with the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor project. I have written to the Prime Minister, expressing my apprehension on the issue,” he said. However, he made it clear that he was not against development.
Regarding Yettinahole project, Mr. Deve Gowda said Water Resources Minister M.B. Patil did not know basics of irrigation. “The Minister is implementing the project despite opposition from local people,” he said.
‘Foreign companies reap all benefits here and cheat poor farmers… I have written to the Prime Minister, expressing my apprehension on the issue.’
