KOCHI: Landlosers are planning to challenge the discrimination in price fixing after Kochi Metro's disproportionate payout to Seematti came to light. More than 400 landlosers are up in arms against the district collector's largesse.
“It is a clear case of discrimination," said Prof V. P. G. Marar, secretary of Kochi Gandhi Bhavan committee, which surrendered 22 cents. “If Seematti is given higher rates than those fixed by the District Level Purchase Committee, others too have the right to better compensation.”
Gandhi Bhavanhad demanded another place within the city in exchange and not money. But the district administration is yet to identify and give the land. “If Seematti were given higher rates, we should also get a similar package,” he said.
"If someone decides to approach the court, they also have to be given the same package." Another landloser preferring anonymity told DC that he would demand a revision of the agreement and additional compensation for the land he parted with. “Since the owners have not formed any association, we have to take up the matter individually,” he said.
There are unconfirmed reports of a move to file a Vigilance case against the district collector over the Seematti row.
The total land required for the Aluva–Petta corridor was 40.49 hectares including parking space. The revenue department has so far acquired land from 400 persons.
