Patna's 'Guddu Baba' Leads Three-Decade Crusade to Save the Ganga
In the heart of Patna, a dedicated environmental activist has transformed his life into a relentless mission to protect the sacred river Ganga. Vikas Chandra, widely known as 'Guddu Baba,' has emerged as a crusader against pollution and encroachment, dedicating over 30 years to cleaning up what he calls the "mess" plaguing the river. His efforts span from cremating unclaimed bodies found floating in the Ganga to activating dysfunctional sewage treatment plants and restoring encroached government lands.
From Ganga Bachao Andolan to Legal Victories
Chandra's journey began with the Ganga Bachao Andolan in 2000, a movement aimed at highlighting the river's appalling condition. "I started with a 48-hour fast, followed by campaigns and rallies to garner public support," he recalled. This activism culminated in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in the Patna High Court in July 2000, holding state and central authorities accountable for the river's degradation. After a prolonged legal battle, the court's March 2001 order mandated that unclaimed bodies be the state government's responsibility, marking a significant early victory.
Remarkably, Chandra has filed over 100 PILs in various courts, challenging authorities' negligence in maintaining the Ganga and Patna's environment. Despite lacking formal legal education, he has developed expertise by arguing his own cases, achieving considerable success in most proceedings. His relentless pursuit has not only stopped the disposal of bodies in the river but also reclaimed hundreds of acres from encroachers.
Massive Land Reclamation Achievements
Thanks to Chandra's legal battles, more than 1,000 acres of land belonging to government institutions have been freed from illegal occupation. This includes properties of medical colleges, hospitals, Patna University, and other public lands. Specific reclaimed areas feature:
- Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH): 3 acres
- Nalanda Medical College and Hospital (NMCH): 24 acres
- Shri Krishna Medical College and Hospital, Muzaffarpur: 10 acres
- Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Bhagalpur: 24 acres
- Anugrah Medical College, Gaya: 13 acres
Additionally, 750 acres at the Central Institute of Psychiatry in Ranchi and 352 acres near Mundeshwari Temple in Kaimur were restored through his efforts.
Environmental and Social Impact
Beyond land reclamation, Chandra has played a pivotal role in environmental improvements. He helped make sewage treatment plants at Beur, Saidpur, and Pahari functional, ensuring proper waste management along the Ganga. His work also includes facilitating respectful cremations for unclaimed bodies and installing north India's first animal crematorium at Ram Chak in Bariya, Patna.
Over the years, his selfless service has earned him high praise from judicial authorities. Chief Justice Altamas Kabir called him a "public-spirited citizen," while the Patna High Court labeled him a "whistle blower." Former Chief Justice Dipak Misra described him as "pro bono publico," and Chief Justice Narasimha Reddy recognized him as a "public-spirited person."
Facing Threats with Fearlessness
Despite his achievements, Chandra has faced numerous threats from land mafias due to his pro-people activities. "I am never afraid of these threats and continue my mission unabated," he stated. Drawing strength from his past experiences, including cremating thousands of bodies, he remains undeterred. "I will continue this fight till the very end," he affirmed, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the cause.
Vikas Chandra's story is a testament to the power of individual activism in driving environmental and social change. His three-decade-long crusade not only highlights the critical state of the Ganga but also inspires collective action for a cleaner, healthier river ecosystem.
