NHAI Clarifies Compensation for Sandalwood Farmer
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has clarified the situation regarding compensation owed to T.N. Vishukumar, a sandalwood farmer who allegedly attempted to end his life near Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
According to reports, Mr. Vishukumar, a farmer and sandalwood cultivator from Haliyur village in Tarikere taluk, allegedly attempted to take his life as a form of protest on June 2 near Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.
Background of the Incident
- 1.5 acres of land belonging to Vishukumar was acquired by the NHAI in 2016 for a highway project.
- Vishukumar claimed that the NHAI had reduced the compensation amount and delayed its payment.
NHAI's Clarification
However, the NHAI stated that compensation for the sandalwood trees on Vishukumar’s land was assessed and paid as per the rates determined by the Forest Department.
“NHAI accepted the enhanced compensation and deposited the requisite amount before the court. However, the landowner declined to accept the compensation amount deposited through the due legal process,” an NHAI statement said.
Compensation Deposited in High Court
The NHAI has now clarified that the compensation due to Vishukumar has been deposited in the High Court.
Note: The NHAI's clarification comes in response to Vishukumar's allegations of prolonged delays in compensation.