The Hindu : Other States / Uttar Pradesh News : U.P. still has zamindari system

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Friday, Sep 24, 2004

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Other States - Uttar Pradesh

U.P. still has zamindari system

FEROZABAD, SEPT. 23. Who says the Zamindari system has ended in the country? At least two villages in Uttar Pradesh's Ferozabad district have not done away with the feudal way of life.

Rashidpur Kanetha and Dartani would be an eyesore for most urban visitors, as its developmental process is in a shambles. Compared to other parts of the state, no development has taken place in these two villages since India achieved independence in August 1947.

The villagers own their respective lands, but can't sell them or take loan on the same.

``The entire village is affected by the zamindari system. There is harassment of all kinds. There is no facility of any kind and no development at all. We don't even have a cremation ground in the village. There is no area here where our cattle can graze,'' said Anar Singh, head of Rashidpur Kanaitha.

Bhagwan Singh, a villager, said, ``We are not gaining anything from this zamindari system. We are very upset, but what can a farmer do? We don't get anything even after paying the taxes. We are not literate. We don't get loans for taking up any occupation as the zamindar has his share of everything.''

Ironically, the zamindari system was abolished from these two villages in 1989. The ``Bharat Stores Company'', which claimed to be the `zamindar' of the area were given the compensation. However, the company managed to get stay orders from the High Court, allowing it to maintain ownership rights over these two villages with the help of Zamindar Choube Sudarshan Ram.

Ferozabad's sub-divisional magistrate Shatrughan Singh says the local administration is helpless because of the stay order.

ANI

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U.P. still has zamindari system