Gujarat : Salt Pan Workers Threaten Protest in Gandhinagar

Patan : Tensions rise in Gandhinagar as Salt Pan Workers from Santalpur and Adesar villages voice their agitation against the Forest Department’s denial of entry to the Little Rann of Kutch for salt manufacturing. Expressing their plight, workers submitted a memorandum to the Patan Collector and threaten to stage a protest in Gandhinagar if immediate action isn’t taken.

Narubhai Koli, a seasoned salt farmer from Santalpur Rann, expressed deep disappointment at the unexpected denial of access to the Rann. “The Forest Department’s delay in allowing entry has left us in limbo. We have no other means of livelihood and are left idle at home,” Narubhai lamented, highlighting the plight of numerous families reliant on salt farming for generations.

“We do not understand why such discrimination is done only with us? We are disappointed with such a dual and selective approach of the government.” Added Koli.

Adding to the dismay, the workers highlighted the contrasting scenario where counterparts from other regions—Dhangadhra, Patadi, Halvad, and Maliya—have commenced salt harvesting two months ago while they aren’t even permitted to prepare their salt farms. The discriminatory treatment baffles Narubhai, reflecting on the selective approach by the authorities.

Sultanbhai, another aggrieved Traditional Agariya, emphasized their persistent attempts to seek clarification, only to face refusals and a lack of written explanations for the entry denial. Attempts to acquire information through RTI have hit a dead end with bureaucratic transfers, creating confusion and further aggravating their plight.

“We have been making repeated representations to both our MLA as well as to Forest Dept. However, they even refuse to give us anything in writing the reason for refusal of entry.”  Said  Sultanbhai, Traditional Agariya

As frustration mounts and avenues for dialogue dwindle, the Agariyas are now contemplating a strike in front of the Forest Department office in Gandhinagar. The escalating tension underscores the pressing need for resolution and fairness in access to the Little Rann of Kutch, a vital source of livelihood for these communities.