Assuring that the government will first evolve a political consensus before bringing about any changes to the new Land Acquisition Act, Rural Development minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday said there were “contradictory views” emerging within the parties that want changes to the legislation. “The issue is the microscopic minority leaders sitting in Delhi. Their practical chief ministers are saying something. They are giving in writing (suggested changes). These people (microscopic minority leaders) are saying something else. I am confused,” Gadkari said when asked about the government's efforts to bring changes to the Act. The Union Minister was addressing a press conference to outline his ministry's initiatives in the first 100 days of this government. He, however, made it clear the government would take all political parties in confidence and evolve a consensus before changes are brought in. He also clarified there would be no compromise on clauses related to compensation and rehabilitation and resettlement. “There is no question of reducing compensation package for farmers whose land is acquired for projects, we will try to increase it,” Gadkari said. “Leaders from every political party were telling me in writing to bring changes in the Act. I wish to make it clear that whenever there will be a consensus on the matter, then the government will take a decision. There is no general consensus on the issue right now,” he said, adding parties that had passed the Act in Parliament last year now wanted some changes.
