‘Solution’ to Singur in Tata walkout?

Officials argue that if the Tatas push Singur on the backburner and proceed for alternative sites to produce Nano, it may lead to a situation that would test the patience of 'unwilling' farmers, reports Avijit Ghosal.

Ratan Tata’S new leap of faith away from Bengal may just throw up a solution eluding the most intensive efforts of a sleepless state government so far, senior bureaucrats said on a day when the automobile major launched the Karnataka offensive.

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This is how their logic works: Officials argue that if the Tatas push Singur on the backburner and proceed for alternative sites to produce Nano, it may lead to a situation that would test the patience of 'unwilling' farmers.

With the Tatas 'quitting' Singur, the government would turn its back on the “land-losers” too, offering them nothing beyond the original package. The government has already clarified that the enhanced package would be applicable only if the Tatas resume work at the plant. The land, however, remains with the Tatas according to the agreement with the government. Therefore, if the Tatas 'walk away', the farmers might find it prudent to accept whatever compensation comes their way.