28th April 2026: Chairperson of Rachnatmak Congress, Mr. Sandeep Dikshit, met with the leaders of the Ken–Betwa Movement along with farmers, tribal communities, and other residents affected by the Ken–Betwa River Linking Project. During the interaction, he listened in detail to their concerns regarding displacement, rehabilitation, compensation, environmental protection, and the long-term social impact of the project. The meeting provided an opportunity for affected communities to directly present their experiences and challenges, highlighting the need for a more inclusive and transparent decision-making process.
Participants expressed concerns over the adequacy of the existing survey process, compensation mechanisms, and rehabilitation measures. They called for a transparent and updated survey, fair compensation, land in exchange for land, homes in exchange for homes, and dignified rehabilitation for all displaced families. The discussion also emphasised the importance of ensuring full compliance with the Forest Rights Act, safeguarding the rights of tribal communities, and protecting the region’s rich biodiversity, forests, and wildlife from irreversible ecological damage.
Mr. Dikshit reaffirmed Rachnatmak Congress’s commitment to constructive dialogue and people-centric development, stating that infrastructure and development projects must be implemented in a manner that respects constitutional values, protects the rights and livelihoods of affected communities, and preserves the environment. He emphasised that sustainable development is possible only when local communities are heard, rehabilitation is carried out with dignity and fairness, and ecological conservation remains an integral part of public policy.
