Swapna Kumbar , Bengaluru - Protests against the Ken-Betwa river link project have resumed in Madhya Pradesh, with mostly women leading a symbolic sit-in near Kupi village on the banks of the Barana River. The protest, now in its fifth day, has taken the form of a “Chita Andolan,” or pyre protest, with demonstrators placing hanging nooses around their necks.

The renewed agitation reflects deep anger among local communities over displacement, rehabilitation and compensation linked to the project. Protesters say earlier assurances from the administration were not fulfilled, and they accuse officials of failing to deliver fair treatment to affected families.

The Ken-Betwa project has long been controversial because it affects tribal communities and rural households in parts of Chhatarpur and Panna districts. Concerns include loss of land, forests, water resources and livelihoods, along with fears of inadequate rehabilitation for those displaced by the project.

By reviving the protest in such a dramatic form, the demonstrators are trying to draw attention to what they see as a lack of justice and accountability. Their action also shows that opposition to the project remains strong even after earlier talks with authorities.

The resumption of protests suggests that the Ken-Betwa project remains politically and socially sensitive on the ground. Unless the compensation and rehabilitation concerns are addressed more convincingly, the agitation is likely to continue.