Housing schemes: Farmers demand exit plan before eviction

PESHAWAR:

Demonstrators in the city gathered opposite Cantonment Railway Station on Wednesday to protest against ongoing encroachment drive in their areas. “Farmers are poor. Landlords as well as officials from Defence Housing Authority (DHA) are evicting them in the name of modernising the city,” a protester said.

“This is grave injustice.” Elders of the Mutahidda Committee Biradaraan were leading the protesting farmers.

They raised a voice against the feudal system, authorities as well as landlords. Protesters complained about being asked to leave their houses, most of which are made of mud.

An elder said they have worked with the farmers for over 50 years. “We are not against construction of modern townships. But we have no other source of income, the land owners should pay us so we can evacuate safely and find better jobs,” a farmer said. He added their personal safety should not be put at risk.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 26^th,  2015.