Tata Motors' Singur Suspension: A Setback, Not a Deterrent, Says Bajaj
The suspension of operations at Tata Motors' Nano plant in Singur, West Bengal, is an unfortunate development, according to Bajaj Auto chairman Rahul Bajaj. However, he expressed confidence that this incident will not discourage foreign investors from considering India as a long-term investment destination.
Speaking to reporters during the annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers, Bajaj stated, "It’s a very unfortunate thing that has happened in Singur, but I don’t think that there will be any long-term effect on India’s position as an investment destination.”
He expressed hope that the Tata Nano project would still proceed, saying, “I definitely want Tata Nano to come out from Singur and I hope it will come out in October itself.”
Bajaj acknowledged West Bengal chief minister Buddhadeb Bhattacharya’s efforts over the past four years to attract investments to the state, noting that the Tata pullout could represent a significant setback for West Bengal.
Bajaj Addresses Allegations of Vested Interest
Responding to accusations that his interest in the matter stems from Bajaj Auto's plans to launch a competing small car, Bajaj retorted: “Those who say this have selfish interest or are plain stupid. Those who say this are thieves, interested parties or plain stupid.”
Bajaj clarified his stance on land acquisition: “I have always advocated that nobody’s land should be taken without giving a fair price and against their will. I have been saying this for the last four years to the government.” He went on to explain, “Bajaj Motors itself was set up on acquired land. I am nobody to comment against it, but all I am saying that development has to take place but at the same time, people need food security.”
Background of the Singur Dispute
The government acquired 997.11 acres of agricultural land in Singur, roughly 40 kilometers from Kolkata, and allocated it to Tata Motors for the construction of the Nano small car plant.
However, the project encountered resistance from the outset from numerous political parties concerning the acquisition of land. Starting on August 24th, the primary opposition party in the state, the Trinamool Congress, blockaded the area surrounding the factory, demanding the return of 400 acres.
Consequently, Tata Motors halted all work at the Nano manufacturing facility for an indefinite period, signaling their preparedness to divest from the state.