What happened
An indefinite hunger strike against the Ken-Betwa Link Project and other irrigation schemes in Madhya Pradesh’s Bundelkhand region has entered its 15th day. The protest is being held on the banks of the Barana river near Kupi village.
The protesters, mainly tribal women, say rehabilitation has been inadequate and that displacement-related grievances remain unresolved. The same protest has also used symbolic forms of protest such as jal satyagraha, chita satyagraha, and faansi satyagraha.
Why the issue matters for UPSC
The Ken-Betwa Link Project is a strong UPSC topic because it sits at the intersection of irrigation planning, environmental and social costs, and the state’s obligation to rehabilitate displaced families. The protest adds a governance angle by showing that project execution is not complete when physical works begin; rehabilitation and grievance redress remain part of the policy test.
Background continuity
Related current affairs
- Activist ends fast against Ken-Betwa linking after 18 days
- Why are there protests over the Ken-Betwa project?
- Tribals escalate protest against Ken-Betwa river-linking project; demand higher rehabilitation package
- Police clear protest against Ken-Betwa, other projects in M.P.
- Hunger stir against Ken-Betwa Link Project enters 15th day
- Ken, Betwa and a line drawn on water