Protest Erupts at GMADA Office in Mohali Over Aerotropolis Project
A tense standoff occurred at the GMADA office in Mohali on Thursday as farmers from eight villages staged a protest against the acquisition of 3,553 acres of land for the expansion of the Aerotropolis project and other sectors.
Background of the Protest
Braving heavy rain, the agitated farmers had gathered at the office to attend a scheduled meeting with the Chief Administrator, which was earlier fixed in response to a protest held on March 13.
Meeting Cancellation Sparks Anger
- The farmers, representing villages including Badi, Kurdi, Patton, Matran, Siaun, Kishanpura, Chhat and Bakarpur, arrived at the office in the morning expecting to meet with the Chief Administrator.
- However, they were informed that the Chief Administrator was on leave and the meeting would not take place, sparking widespread anger among the protesters.
- The lack of prior intimation further enraged the protesters, who felt that their concerns were being ignored.
Protesters' Response
The farmers, frustrated with the cancellation of the meeting, locked the main gate of the GMADA office and held a sit-in, raising slogans against the Punjab government and GMADA officials.
The protest continued for nearly two hours before the protesters dispersed, leaving behind a sense of unease and frustration.
Key Points
- 3,553 acres of land being acquired for the Aerotropolis project and other sectors.
- Farmers from eight villages protesting the land acquisition.
- Meeting with Chief Administrator cancelled at the last minute.
- Protesters locked the GMADA office gate and held a sit-in.