Archive · 22 Jul 2026
Madhya Pradesh to probe Ken-Betwa project rehabilitation complaints
The Madhya Pradesh government has promised to investigate complaints about the rehabilitation of families displaced by the Ken-Betwa Link Project.
This project, which aims to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, has affected thousands of families.
The government says almost all families have been compensated, but the opposition claims there are serious irregularities.
They say some families were left out of surveys and compensation was not given correctly.
The government has agreed to look into these complaints and complete the investigation within a month.
Protests have been happening because of these issues, and the government says most of the benefits have already been given out.
Madhya Pradesh government to investigate complaints about rehabilitation of families displaced by the Ken-Betwa Link Project.
Opposition alleges irregularities in compensation, surveys, and Gram Sabha proceedings.
Government claims all affected families have been compensated, with only a few cases pending.
Protests have occurred due to allegations of omitted families and incorrect compensation.
Project aims to irrigate over 9 lakh hectares and supply drinking water to Bundelkhand.
- Who
- Madhya Pradesh government, Opposition Leader Umang Singhar, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Revenue Minister Karan Singh Verma
- What
- Inquiry into complaints about rehabilitation of families displaced by the Ken-Betwa Link Project
- When
- April 15, 2026 (survey teams constituted), ongoing protests
- Where
- Panna and Chhatarpur districts, Madhya Pradesh
- Why
- Allegations of irregularities in compensation, rehabilitation surveys, and Gram Sabha proceedings
Government's Stance
Opposition's Allegations
Compensation and Rehabilitation
Government's Stance
The government claims all affected families have been compensated and no irregularities found.
Opposition's Allegations
The opposition alleges serious irregularities, including omitted families and incorrect compensation.
Gram Sabha Proceedings
Government's Stance
The government maintains valid Gram Sabha proceedings were conducted.
Opposition's Allegations
The opposition questions the validity, alleging no sarpanch was present during some proceedings.
Project Construction
Government's Stance
The government asserts construction is proceeding as planned with most rehabilitation completed.
Opposition's Allegations
The opposition argues construction should not advance until rehabilitation is fully completed.
- Project Cost
- Rs 44,605 crore
- Displaced Families in Panna
- 1,321
- Affected Families in Chhatarpur
- 3,718
- Special Rehabilitation Grant
- Rs 12.5 lakh per eligible family
- Total Compensation Disbursed in Panna
- Rs 164.87 crore
- Remaining Compensation in Panna
- Rs 25 lakh for 2 families
- Additional Families Found in Chhatarpur
- 638
- Project Approval Year
- 2021