The future looks uncertain for the 160 families at ‘Nikathu’, in Vaduthala. The initiation of any project can leave them in the lurch, especially as they do not possess title deeds and cannot claim any compensation. The long pending demand for the title deeds has been conveniently brushed aside by the government.
With the Greater Cochin Development Authority (GCDA) proposing a ring road project through the area, the apprehension of the residents has soared. The residents complained that they have knocked on many doors but in vain. “The government, be it the UDF or the LDF in power, has never bothered to understand the gravity of the situation, terming the land as ‘puzha puramboke’ which is not true. We have been cultivating paddy for six months and shrimp for the next six months every year and how can it be called so,” ask residents Sebastian and Jossie.
The Cheranellore Village officer has confirmed that the people have been farming shrimp and paddy for several years. “But according to survey number 985 in the village records, it is marked as ‘puzha puramboke land’ for which they cannot claim possession certificates,” said James Variath of Cheranellore Panchayat office. Of the 20 acres in ‘Nikathu’, around four acres are inhabited by people who lead a hand to mouth existence. In times of emergency, they cannot even raise money through loans, the residents said.
Outsiders who took advantage of the low cost of the land are exploiting them. One cent of land here costs `4 lakh to 5 lakh. But with the intervention of some politicians, it was sold for `40,000 to ` 50,000 a cent during 2005 to 2009 but the practice stopped after people realised that it was difficult to procure title deeds,” they said. The village officer said the issue could be solved only if the government gives them special consideration. “The Moolampilly evictees were rehabilitated in ‘puzha puramboke’ land. The government should take our issue into consideration,” said residents.
Hibi Eden MLA said, “We are trying our best to give them legal status. But as per the High Court verdict, title deeds cannot be given for government land near river, road, lakes and canals,” he said.