Recent panchayat delimitation in Rajasthan has ignited widespread discontent and protests across various regions. In a similar vein, significant public anger has erupted in Bundi district. On Sunday, residents of Chhapawada village in Bundi district staged a major protest against the government's decision regarding panchayat delimitation, leading to a tense situation in the area.
The Epicenter of Discontent
The villagers of Chhapawada were deeply upset by the government's decision to move their village from Bajad Gram Panchayat to Jamitpura, while in protest against this move, villagers began gathering on the Talera-Keshoraipatan main road early in the morning. Within a short time, they completely blocked traffic by sitting on the road and began chanting slogans against the panchayat reorganization order, while this demonstration highlighted the villagers' strong feelings about their identity and administrative convenience.
Core Grievances of the Villagers
The protesting villagers unequivocally stated that the government had reorganized the panchayat without consulting them, while their argument was that Chhapawada village had been an integral part of Bajad Gram Panchayat for many years, and moving it to Jamitpura would severely hinder their development work. Villagers also alleged that the new delimitation had increased the distance to the panchayat for several villages, forcing people to travel further even for minor tasks. This would result in a waste of both time and resources, creating additional daily difficulties for the residents.
Apprehensions of Regional Disparity
Expressing their concerns, the villagers stated that changing the panchayat would lead to inequalities in regional schemes, budget allocation, and the distribution of facilities. They feared that under the new delimitation, the benefits and development opportunities available to their village might be adversely affected, while under the old system, they shared a harmonious relationship with Bajad panchayat, which could now be disrupted by the move to Jamitpura. This perceived disparity raises concerns about negative impacts on their social and economic development.
Major Traffic Disruption
The protest caused long queues of vehicles on the Talera-Keshoraipatan main road, while many travelers were stranded for hours due to this unexpected traffic jam, facing significant inconvenience. School buses, private vehicles, ambulances, and cargo trucks were also stuck in the jam, severely impacting daily commute and essential services. Some drivers attempted to find alternative routes, but this wasn't possible due to the large crowd of villagers and their firm resolve, while children, the elderly, and sick individuals among the stranded passengers faced particular hardships.
Administrative Intervention
As soon as the news of the road blockade and protest reached the administration, officials promptly sprang into action. The Naib Tehsildar, a police team, and officials from the panchayat department immediately arrived at the scene. They initiated talks with the protesters and attempted to persuade them. The administration assured the villagers that their objections would be conveyed to the district administration, and an appropriate solution would be found. Officials appealed for peace and for the road to be cleared to alleviate the inconvenience faced by the general public.
Unwavering Stance of Protesters
However, the villagers remained firm on their demand, making it clear that they would continue their agitation until the old panchayat system was restored. Elders, women, and youth present at the site collectively voiced their stand, unequivocally stating that panchayat delimitation without their will and consent was unacceptable. Their unwavering resolve demonstrates their seriousness about their rights and their participation in local governance, while the protest is likely to continue until concrete action is taken regarding their demands.
