Development works at a proposed subdivision in Ba where a number of squatters are located is now on hold after the directive by the Acting Local Government Minister Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.
Ba Special Administrator, Arun Prasad today maintains there is a misunderstanding and they had assured those who could not afford to pay to get the proposed newly developed lots could stay there for the rest of their lives.
Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has intervened in the redevelopment of the squatter settlement in Ba where hundreds of residents questioned the Special Administrator’s plan to move them and sell off the land.
Sayed-Khaiyum said he was told by the residents that Arun Prasad had allegedly threatened to cut off the water and electricity if they did not listen to him.
In a meeting on Monday, distressed residents told Sayed-Khaiyum of how the Ba Council had sent earthmoving equipment into the area without warning and had begun demolishing cassava patches and coconut trees that were vital for their survival.
Sayed-Khaiyum has strongly criticised Prasad and accused him of misrepresenting the true position of the government at Clopcott settlement and using bullying tactics against the residents.
Prasad said they have had proper consultations and the Local Government Ministry was fully aware about the developments.
Prasad said through the developments the individual lot owners will have 99 year leases as right now they are squatters.
He said the Ba Town Council supports the government and this proposed development will benefit the landowners and tenants.
When questioned on the destroying of crops in the area, Prasad said the residents were aware that a particular area would be cleared for a new road.
Prasad has written to Sayed-Khaiyum and is now awaiting his reply.
Story by: Vijay Narayan & Watisoni Butabua
