Drought and a full reservoir at Panchna Dam have ignited a significant political and social conflict in eastern Rajasthan. The controversy, ongoing for nearly two decades, involves disputes over irrigation water, leading to protests by affected farmers and interventions from the Rajasthan High Court and Minister Kirodi Lal Meena. The dam, built between 1977 and 2004, was intended to provide water for irrigation and drinking purposes in the region.
Located in Karauli district, the Panchna Dam project has resulted in the displacement of numerous families, with some farmers alleging they have not received the promised irrigation benefits. The conflict centers around 74 villages, with farmers in Sawai Madhopur and Gangapur City districts claiming a lack of canal water since 2006, affecting around 40,000 bighas of land. Meanwhile, residents of 39 villages in Karauli demand resolution of compensation and rehabilitation issues before the canal gates are opened.
The situation escalated as protesters, including women, marched towards the railway line, demanding the release of water. Minister Meena highlighted the significant losses incurred by farmers due to the prolonged water scarcity, threatening to resign if the court’s directives on water release were not followed. Congress leader Sachin Pilot called for dialogue and compliance with court orders to resolve the conflict peacefully, emphasizing the importance of water access for all stakeholders.
Efforts are underway by the administration to mediate discussions between the conflicting parties and seek a mutually agreeable solution. With tensions rising and political pressure mounting, the Panchna Dam dispute has reached a critical juncture, highlighting the need to balance irrigation needs with the concerns of displaced villagers in Rajasthan.
