Oilfield privatization: Agitators detained in Guwahati

We have to oppose any decision that is detrimental to the State's interest. The government cannot impose anything on the people. The Centre should reconsider the decision - PK Mahanta

By Our Staff Reporter

Guwahati, July 15: Police detained hundreds of activists to prevent a march taken out to protest the proposed move to lease out 12 State oilfields to private firms.

The protest march was launched by 11 Left parties from Guwahati Club today. Police picked up the protestors immediately after they began their 'Dispur March' and detained them at the AEI field at Chandmari.

The activists organized a protest meeting at the playfield which was also addressed by AGP leader Prafulla Kumar Mahanta.

"We have to oppose any decision that is detrimental to the State's interest. The government cannot impose anything on the people. The Centre should reconsider the decision," Mahanta said.

"If oil is among the varat (nine gems), why is the government giving it to others. Like in other NE states, right to resources should be with the people even in Assam," he added.

Describing the police action as an attack on democracy, CPI(ML) leader Rubul Sharma questioned why "corporates were being given the license to exploit the State's resources."

LDP leader Pradyut Bora said the government should learn from history. "Why can't OIL or any other government company develop these fields," Bora wondered.