Citizens’ Research Collective on SEZ

Mangalore, February 10, 2008: Mixed response was expressed regarding Mangalore Special Economic Zone (MSEZ) during an introspective discussion on various topics convened by ‘like-minded persons’ at Kalangan at Shakthinagar on Saturday.

When the resource persons, activists and some of the students argued against the project, certain students opined that there was a need to nurture ‘positive thinking’ regarding developmental issues. The arguments led to heated debate amongst the students too.

Environmentalist Upendra Hosabettu explained the demerits of the MSEZ on agriculture, environment and society as a whole, while labour leader Vishnumurthy focussed on the crisis to be faced by the labour class in the backdrop of special economic zone.

Stating that the impact of SEZ on the environment has not been assessed properly, Mr Hosabettu alleged that the environment impact assessment had been done during rainy season, while the satellite image of the farming area had been taken during summer, which were quite misleading.

Mr Vishnumurthy said as the labour laws of the land did not apply to the companies in the SEZ, labourers might experience slavery, while the total sovereignty of the nation would be under threat.

Mr Vasudeva Belle, who chaired the session expressed his worry over some of the protest demonstrations being held for ‘bargaining’ purpose.

‘Positive approach’
Presenting a different view, MSW student Shruthi said there was a need to concentrate on development with a positive approach, while another HRD student Supriya said there was no question of slavery as the country had already welcomed globalisation and related concepts. “How should development get a good exposure and farmers come out of their poverty if the industries are opposed?” she queried.

On the other hand, a political science student Pushparaj said there was a need to return to the pages of history just to understand how India was caught under slavery. He also stressed on the necessity of waging a legal war against SEZs as they were “anti-constitutional”.

Ironically Activist Natesh Ullal said if total development was achieved only through SEZs, why could not the whole country be made a special economic zone.

Topics like independent identity for Tulu language, communal harmony and infrastructure development in Dakshina Kannada were also discussed during the programme.

Prof Rajaram Tolpady, Dr Pattabhirama Somayaji, Dr U Arabi, Dr Shivaram Shetty among others presented their views. Programme convener P V Mohan was present.

Source: Deccan Herald