The villagers, who have formed a 'Krishijami Bachao Committee', alleged senior army officials had recently visited their village to explore possibilities of setting up the camp.

Raigunj sub-divisional officer Dibyendu Das told reporters that the army in a letter to the district administration had sought the land for the camp.

The administration, he said, however, has not commited to the army on the issue. "Whatever is the decision, rights and interests of the farmers will be protected at all costs." Villagers said all political parties, including CPI-M, have extended support to their their cause.

Panchayat pradhan Israful Haque of CPI-M alleged a group of army officials had met him recently and requested him to pacify the farmers to hand over their land to the army temporarily.

Haque said he had made it clear to the officers that nothing could be done without the consent of the villagers.