Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi today criticised the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government’s stand with regards to the Korba coal mines. Rahul Gandhi said that mining of the area will leave the tribals helpless.
“Narendra Modi talks of development, makes tall promises. But what will happen to the tribes and their kids? If a mine comes up here, they will lose their jungle. Is this development?”
Gandhi also stated that the land of poor farmers in the adjoining areas of Delhi had been snatched away by the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Government in the name of development.
“Narendra Modi says a coal mine is needed here, but tell me, what do the people here really need? This jungle belongs to you. If this jungle perishes, you will perish too. Your voice does not reach Delhi, even the media ignores you. But we, the Congress Party and me, are with you,” he added.
Gandhi was addressing the farmers and tribals affected by coal mining in Madanpur village in Korba district. The Congress vice-president is currently on a two-day visit to Chhattisgarh. Gandhi will be meeting villagers affected by coal mining and power projects. According to reports, he will also undertake a 10 kilometre padyatra (foot march) with the farmers.