VHP, Bajarang Dal and Ram Dev hijack Uttrakhand Anti Dam Protest

(Published in: The Hindu, 20 June 2008)

Work on power projects suspended

C. K. Chandramohan
Sequel to fast by G. D. Agrawal seeking ban on power projects on Bhagirathi

DEHRA DUN: The Uttarakhand Cabinet on Thursday decided to suspend work on the ongoing Pala Maneri and proposed Bhairoghati hydro power projects in Uttarkashi district.

The decision came after mounting pressure on the seventh day of an indefinite fast by G. D. Agrawal seeking a total ban on all five power projects on the Bhagirathi river from Gangotri to Dharasu near Uttarkashi so as to “maintain a natural flow and form of the river in the first 125-km stretch”.

Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal and a large number of holy men have formed a committee under the stewardship of the Yoga guru Ram Dev to crusade for restoration of the lost sanctity and glory of the Ganga -- much to the chagrin of the environmentalists who feel that an environmental cause was being hijacked by the saffron brigade for political gains.

Speaking to newspersons after the Cabinet meeting, Finance and Science and Technology Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank said the Government was equally concerned about maintaining the free flow of water from Gangotri as the Ganga was a symbol of faith not only for Hindus but also served as a lifeline to the entire nation.

“We are equally concerned about the health of Prof. Agrawal and the Chief Minister, Bhuwan Chandra Khanduri, would talk to him soon to sort out matters,” Mr. Nishank said.

Not satisfied by the mere suspension of two of the five projects between Gangotri and Uttarkashi, Prof. Agrawal is stated to have threatened to continue his fast till the Government makes a clear declaration that no activity will be undertaken on the river in the area and comes out with a policy to maintain the sanctity of the holy river.

Pavitra Singh, a close associate of Prof. Agrawal, said he was equally sore at various political and other leaders trying to hijack the issue and giving it the colours that suited them.

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