Mangalore: Gregory Patrao Begins Indefinite Fast at DC’s Office
Daijiworld Media Network—Mangalore (RS/CN)
Mangalore, Jun 18: Citizens demanding civil rights for farmer Gregory Patrao and his family members who lost their house during the alleged forcible acquisition by the KIADB began an indefinite fast in front of the deputy commissioner’s office in the city on Thursday June 17 as part of their protest.
The protest was inaugurated by ‘Negila Yogi’ Gregory Patrao in the presence of representatives from supporting organisations.
Patrao said that there was no way without fasting as he had lost all means of earning a livelihood. He added that the officials of KIADB and the district administration, with their dictatorship have led him to this.
“My requests to officials and demands put forth before the government through letters have not received any reply, so I will continue my fasting till I get justice”, he said.
Allowing Patrao to continue agricultural activities on his 14.27 acres of land till he uses all the options available through the law as status quo should be maintained, return of agricultural produce and other goods valuing Rs 24,65,815 from the houses, compensation of lost and damaged goods, withdrawing of all the criminal cases filed against him and his family, and punishment of officials who demolished his house with suitable legal action for unlawful acts of seizing essential and valuable goods using ‘goondas’ during the acquisition, are the main demands of Patrao.
T R Bhat, district president, All India Bank Employees Union, said that this is an unfortunate day where a farmer, who is respected and honoured in our country, is sitting on an indefinite fast. “The government should think about the farmers and the poor who become homeless and landless before permitting large scale and anti-environment industries”, he added.
Rohitaksha Rai Kulaiguttu, leader, Krishikara Vedike, said that the people in this district can breath a sigh of relief only when the cruel and inhumane act of the KIADB officials is punished. “Bringing a farmer to the streets is disrespectful to the men who believe him to be the backbone of the country”, he added.
“The representatives from the supporting organizations will also accompany Patrao in fasting”, said Vidya Dinakar, convener, Citizens Forum, and added that panchayat members and other individuals will also join in.
Members from Catholic Sabha, Karavali Karnataka Janabhivruddi Vedike, Jamath-e-Islami Hind, Artists’ Forum and other organizations were also present.