Supreme Court Clears Path for Kathda Airstrip in Mandvi: Villagers' Plea Rejected
Mandvi, Kutch: The decks have been cleared for the construction and expansion of the airstrip in Kathda village of Mandvi taluka. In a significant legal development, the Supreme Court of India has declined to interfere with the Gujarat High Court's previous order, effectively dismissing the petition filed by the local villagers and the Gram Panchayat.
Background of the Land Dispute
The controversy centers around the allocation of hundreds of acres of land in the Kathda and Mandvi border areas for airstrip expansion. The Kathda Gram Panchayat and local residents had vehemently opposed this land allotment, arguing that the land was being handed over to the Aviation Department by bypassing the authority of the Gram Sabha.
After the Gujarat High Court ruled in favor of the Aviation Department, the villagers moved the Apex Court. However, the Supreme Court upheld the High Court’s decision, marking a final legal blow to the protestors and local cattle breeders.
Concerns Over Grazing Land (Gauchar)
The decision has sparked widespread disappointment among the villagers and animal lovers (Gau-premis) in the region. Local leaders expressed grave concerns regarding the environmental and social impact of the project:
- Loss of Livelihood: Residents fear that the acquisition of grazing land will devastate the local cattle-rearing economy.
- Environmental Threat: Villagers stated, "If the Gauchar (grazing land) is not saved, the very existence of our rural life will be at stake."
- Legal Process: Bharmal Gadhvi, husband of the Kathda Village Sarpanch, noted that 212 acres of land were allocated despite opposition from the Gram Panchayat.
"No Choice But to Accept the Verdict"
Speaking on the current situation, village representatives expressed that while their spirit of struggle remains, they are legally bound to honor the Supreme Court's verdict.
"We fought this legal battle from the High Court all the way to the Supreme Court to protect our land and culture. Since the Apex Court found no reason to intervene, we have no choice but to accept the decision," said Bharmal Gadhvi.
With the legal hurdles removed, the Aviation Department is expected to proceed with the development of the Kathda airstrip, which is considered a strategic infrastructure project for the Kutch district.
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