People's Democracy

‘A Crucial Struggle’

“Those who participated in this convention handed over numerous petitions for land, repossession of land, issuance of pattas for their land etc. But those (AIADMK) who were driven out of power by the people are questioning the availability of land in the state assembly. We will collect all such petitions throughout the state identifying the confiscated lands/fallow lands and go in a procession to Poes Garden to tell Jayalalitha where all these lands are” declared K Varadarajan in his concluding remarks in the convention.

He expressed satisfaction about the seriousness with which the DMK-led state government was proceeding to fulfill its promise of giving two acres of land to every landless family. The first phase of distribution is to take place from September 17, 2006. He cautioned the state government about impediments being placed by the irresponsible opposition party and bureaucracy in the implementation of this promise. He assured full support of the AIKS and AIAWU to every endeavour of the government for its effective implementation. Varadarajan exhorted those attending the convention not to rest thinking that it is the government’s responsibility to implement the scheme. Right from identification of land, to the issuing of pattas, the members of the AIKS and AIAWU have to play an active role, he said. In order to do this a call has been given by these organisations for holding of cycle jatha from September 11 to 17, 2006. On September 21 there would be massive rallies in front of all district collectors’ offices to present the petitions.

Varadarajan narrated the experience of Rajasthan farmers’ struggle, the main lesson of which was that sustained movements could bring desired results. Again the cycle rallies held in Andhra Pradesh against untouchability gave a new kind of experience, he said. Everyday when the rally ended, the number of rallyists increased by significant numbers and the programme concluded with increased determination of people to put an end to injustices against the rural folk. In conclusion, he said this Chennai convention is not a yet another convention. This is just a beginning of a bigger struggle which has the potential of changing the political course of the state. If properly comprehended and implemented this movement would be significant step to lead the state in the path of Bengal and Kerala.