The farmers’ group, Khedut Samaj Gujarat (KSG), is protesting against a 2009 government notification that brings 68 villages of Mehsana, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad district under Ahmedabad Urban Development Authority (AUDA). The farmers are citing a number of practical problems that will put their farming in jeopardy.
Due to this, when the farmers tried to peacefully hold a protest march from Kalol to Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad, they were denied permission. Reacting to the situation, a group of farmers has moved the Gujarat High Court seeking direction to the state for the rally, and contended that the government’s move has to do with “political considerations” rather than law and order. The farmers had sought permission from the authorities in Kalol, Gandhinagar and Ahmedabad on June 8. However, two of the authorities denied them permission without stating any reasons.
In the petition, the group has stated that the government’s move to deny permission for the rally is in violation of their rights to assemble without weapons and hold peaceful protests. Adding to the agitation, the farmers are also planning to hold a vehicle rally from Kalol to Gandhinagar and culminate with submitting a representation to Chief Minister Vijay Rupani.
According to the Advocate of the farmers, Anand Yagnik, the government when refused to let the farmers rally, they cited many reasons. One such reason is disruption of road traffic and even that the farmers have not made the provision of toilets for the rally.
The court is expected to hear the petition on Tuesday.
