Sardar Sarovar: Hope and Reality

Abstract

The Sardar Sarovar Project passed through several Political and bureaucratic hurdles. There were wasted interests who were in close alliance with the decision makers and implementers which resulted into nullifying many of the fundamental objectives set in while visualizing the project. The oustees were promised alternative land and work for their sustenance but in reality, as described in the book, remained far from reality. Their hopes were shattered by reality. Yet being down-trodden, illiterate, deprived and no political resources haplessly depended on Medha Patkar for justice. The respective governments tried everything to suppress her movement but was never fully successful. The delay in the project was attributed to 'adivasi' agitation and political factors. Still, it is a fact that the project has not yet fulfilled the goals of bringing about a Transformation in the agriculture, power generation and overall economic development of the state on the other Hand the poor, who were ousted are still struggling to achieve Justice for themselves under the circumstances, it is true that there is a big gap between hope and reality. Out of several issues which are involved with this project, this book is a micro-study of one issue - 'Rehabilitation and Settlement.' The reason was limitation of time and resources. However, there are plethora of issues like 'state disputes in a federal structure and the role of tribunal,' ecological issues, social and psychological impact, economic issues of the region and state as a whole, Politics and corruption can be taken up for future research.