YSRCP slams Naidu’s land acquisition policies

Tadepalli, July 6: Former Minister Merugu Nagarjuna has strongly condemned the Andhra Pradesh government’s aggressive land acquisition policies under Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, jeopardizing farmers’ livelihoods under the guise of industrial development. Speaking on the contentious issue of acquiring approximately 8,000 acres of land in Prakasam district’s Karedu, Nagarjuna asserted that the government’s forceful approach to land acquisition is unjust and lacks public consent. “Forcibly seizing farmers’ lands without their approval is not only unacceptable but also sets a dangerous precedent that could lead to widespread unrest,” he stated.
Nagarjuna highlighted that during the YSRCP’s tenure, land acquisition was carried out transparently and with the consent of farmers, ensuring their lives. He questioned the necessity of the current government’s notification to acquire additional lands when previously allocated lands remain underutilized. “Why issue a notification for thousands of acres when existing lands are lying vacant? What is the motive behind this rush to acquire fertile agricultural lands?” he demanded, hinting at possible large-scale financial irregularities behind the move.
The former minister warned that the YSRCP will not stand idly by if the government continues to intimidate farmers and forcibly acquire their lands. “We will launch a massive agitation to protect the rights of farmers and ensure their voices are heard,” he declared, emphasizing the party’s commitment to the welfare of the agricultural community. Nagarjuna urged the government to focus on developing industries on vacant lands instead of targeting fertile farmlands, which are the backbone of farmers’ sustenance.
“The government’s actions seem designed to provoke conflicts and destabilize rural communities,” Nagarjuna alleged, adding that such policies reflect a disregard for the people’s welfare. He called for immediate transparency regarding the land acquisition process and demanded that the government seek public approval before proceeding.