Dalit landowners not permitted to cultivate their land, BSF 'illegally' deciding real owners

By Kirity Roy*

There is an urgent need to highlight a serious violation of human rights, as defined in Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution of India. This issue directly affects the villagers of Notun Rajapur, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Ranitala Police Station in the Bhagwangola-II Block of Murshidabad district, West Bengal. Since April 7, 2024, the Border Security Force (BSF) stationed at Madan Ghat BOP, Battalion No. 149, Company, Out Post (OP) No. 1, has imposed restrictions that prevent local villagers from accessing and farming their own lands, causing significant distress and suffering within this impoverished agricultural community.

These farmers, who entirely depend on their agricultural lands for their livelihoods, have been unlawfully barred from cultivating their properties. This enforced restriction seems to be in collusion with certain individuals who, with the BSF's assistance, are attempting to seize the lands of these farmers, many of whom belong to the Scheduled Caste community. The resulting deprivation has inflicted severe economic burden and psychological trauma on the affected families.

On June 8, 2024, when the villagers attempted to reclaim their lands, they were met with threats from Arun Mondal, the husband of a local elected village committee member, along with several local thugs armed with sticks and weapons. The BSF personnel present did not intervene, further substantiating the allegations against the BSF.

On June 11, 2024, the landowners collectively submitted a written complaint to the Block Development Officer (BDO) of Bhagwangola-II Block, requesting immediate intervention and redress. Yet, despite the time that has elapsed, no actions have been taken to address their concerns or restore their rightful access to their land.

This ongoing situation violates the fundamental human rights of the farmers and infringes on their constitutional rights to livelihood and property. The actions of the BSF and these complicit individuals have caused great hardship to an already vulnerable population, stripping them of their primary means of income and sustenance.

In light of the severity of this situation, I earnestly request that you:

1. Conduct a comprehensive investigation under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, into the allegations of unlawful restriction and land seizure by the BSF and the involved parties.

2. Take immediate measures to allow the affected farmers to return to their lands and resume their agricultural activities without further hindrance.

3. Hold accountable those responsible for violating the villagers' rights and ensure justice is delivered.

4. Provide appropriate compensation and support to the affected families for the losses and suffering caused by these unlawful actions.

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*Secretary, Banglar Manabadhikar Suraksha Mancha and National Convenor Programme Against Custodial Torture & Impunity. This article is based on the author's representation to the Principal Secretary, Home & Hill Affairs, West Bengal. Kirity Roy

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