ABSTRACT
The weighing of resettlement risks against displacement effects among adivasis is influenced by their experience of powerlessness vis-a-vis the state, the differentiation and relative power within adivasi villages, and the role and orientation of their 'allies' in struggles. Vahini's approach to interest representation was therefore different, focusing on resettlement risks after adivasis in the 19 Gujarat villages had begun to move to resettlement sites. However, only Vahini has played a mediating role in addressing resettlement risks. In the NBA's view, the most glaring problems lie in the resettlement component; the need for its strategic reworking, however, is given very low priority. Despite admitting the 'mistake', Vahini holds the view that displacement risks reincarnate as resettlement risks if gains in policies are not followed-up in the implementation phase. Displacement and resettlement aspects of the Sardar Sarovar Project (reservoir) are therefore beset with problems, both at the level of policy and implementation.
