Villagers Launch Satyagraha, Hunger Strike Over Blocked Route in Etawah

Protest Over Blocked Railway Culvert

In the development block of Etawah district, the villagers of Gram Panchayat Sheikhupur Jakholi have commenced a Satyagraha, a non-violent protest, with the slogan 'Give us a road or give us death'. The protest is in response to the prolonged blockage of a crucial pathway.

The village's access to the main road has been cut off due to persistent waterlogging at a railway culvert. This has led to severe daily life disruptions for the local residents. As part of this demonstration, five villagers – Rajkumar, Surendra Kumar, Subhash Chandra, Chhote Lal, and Shivnath – have begun a hunger strike.

According to social worker Deepak Raj, this Satyagraha will continue daily from 10 AM to 5 PM until their demands are met. Approximately one hundred to one hundred and twenty villagers are participating in the protest, demanding an alternative route.

Daily Struggles of the Public

Rajkumar, who is on a hunger strike, highlighted the significant difficulties faced by villagers in traveling to the Ikdil town for essential purchases due to the inaccessible road. This issue extends beyond market access, impacting students' education and their ability to reach healthcare services.

Surendra Kumar explained that the intermediate and high school colleges are located in Ikdil town. The waterlogging prevents students from attending school, causing them to fall behind in their studies. Small business owners are also facing considerable hardship due to this problem.

Subhash Chandra, who trades in goats, stated that the lack of access to the goat market in Ikdil is negatively affecting his business. Chhote Lal added that many farmers have their agricultural fields on the other side of the railway line, and the waterlogging is preventing timely farming activities.

Access to Health Services Hampered

A most serious concern for the villagers is their impeded access to health services. Shivnath Ji reported that the village's government hospital is situated in Ikdil, making it extremely difficult to transport sick patients there. During emergencies, providing timely medical care to patients is further complicated by the waterlogged conditions.

The villagers have stated that they will continue their daily protests until a permanent and accessible route is provided. They have also warned that the agitation will intensify if their demands are ignored.

Meanwhile, information has emerged that Desh Raj, Harishankar, Radhakrishna, Vimal, and Yogesh are planning to join the hunger strike from tomorrow, which could further escalate the movement.