Sitamarhi/Patna: Protests have intensified in Sitamarhi against the government’s proposed “Sitapuram” satellite township project near the renowned Punauradham Temple.
Hundreds of villagers from Punoura village have openly opposed the proposed acquisition of agricultural land, alleging that the government is attempting to take away their ancestral property in the name of development.
Residents say the move threatens their livelihoods and could push many farming families into economic hardship.
Government Promotes Religious Tourism Plan
The state government has argued that the proposed township project, alongside the planned development of the Punauradham Temple area and the construction of a grand temple dedicated to Mata Janaki, would strengthen religious tourism and provide the region with a new identity.
Officials have also claimed the project would generate employment opportunities and boost the local economy.
Villagers, however, rejected these claims, arguing that the loss of fertile farmland would instead leave them facing unemployment and displacement.
Villagers Hold Mass Meeting Against Project
A large gathering was organised at a government school in Punoura village, where hundreds of residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed land acquisition.
Several affected families attended the meeting, including local landowners and employees associated with the Sitamarhi Health Department.
Participants unanimously declared that they would not surrender their land under any circumstances.
The villagers also boycotted a separate meeting convened by the administration to hear public grievances regarding the project.
Residents said there was little purpose in participating in discussions unless the land acquisition process itself was withdrawn.
“Development Should Not Come at Cost of Our Land”
Speaking at the gathering, landowner and health worker Pankaj Raman said: “If the government wants development, it should pursue it without taking away our agricultural land. Our families survive entirely on this land.”
Another landowner, Pramod Yadav, said villagers would not accept compulsory acquisition without consent.
“Our households run on the small amount of land we possess. If this is taken away, we will be forced into manual labour for survival,” he said.
Demands for Rehabilitation and Compensation Policy
Villagers said the government must first announce a clear policy on displacement, rehabilitation and adequate compensation before moving ahead with any acquisition process.
While acknowledging the religious significance of Punauradham, residents argued that development projects should not come at the cost of local communities and their rights.
Administration Attempts Dialogue Amid Rising Opposition
Officials are currently attempting to persuade villagers and continue discussions regarding the project. However, opposition on the ground appears to be growing stronger.
Residents have warned that if the government attempts to forcibly acquire land, the agitation will be intensified further.
The controversy has now placed the administration in a difficult position as it attempts to balance religious tourism development with the livelihood concerns of local farming communities.
