Centre accused of blocking RDT access to poor

Anantapur – Andhra Pradesh: On the fourth day of a relay hunger strike, leaders of the all-party committee in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh strongly criticized the central government for allegedly conspiring to obstruct RDT’s services to marginalized communities by delaying the renewal of its FCRA license.

Relay hunger strike enters fourth day

The hunger strike, organized by the all-party committee, entered its fourth consecutive day. The protest demands immediate renewal of the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) license for RDT, an organization known for its social and developmental work among poor communities.

RDT’s services under threat, say leaders

JAC Convener Sake Hari alleged that the Centre is deliberately attempting to cut off RDT’s access to foreign funds, thereby denying essential services to the poor. He urged the public to resist what he called “a calculated conspiracy” to isolate RDT from the communities it serves.

Civil society voices support for RDT

Prominent civil society representatives joined the protest in solidarity with RDT. Among them were Mala Employees’ Welfare Association District President Sugamanchi Suresh Babu, lawyer Gouni Naganna, and Mala Welfare United Forum State President Kotla Gangadhar. They expressed concern over the Centre’s attitude towards an organization that they believe has significantly contributed to local development.

Call for immediate FCRA renewal

Speakers questioned the hostility directed at RDT and demanded that the central government take immediate steps to renew the FCRA license, which allows RDT to receive foreign donations crucial for its operations. They emphasized that stopping the funds would jeopardize numerous welfare activities.

State government urged to intervene

The protestors also appealed to the Chief Minister to oppose the Centre’s conditions on RDT and to stand with the organization during his district visits. They declared their readiness to launch further agitations if the obstacles created by the Centre are not removed.

Diverse participation in the protest

Leaders and representatives from various organizations and community groups took part in the hunger strike. Participants included: Mala Mahanadu President Obulesu, Fight for Rights President KP Raju, Divyangula Hakkula Porata Samiti State President Shafi, Jai Bheem Sena BKS Anand, Samatha Sainik Dal District President Sugamanchi Srinivasulu, MRPS Chinna Anjaneyulu, Ashraya Orphanage Krishna Reddy, Leprosy Association Ramachandra Reddy, Christian Minority District General Secretary Prabhakar, Urumula Sangham Urumula Ramu, Artist Tarimela Raju, Venkatesh, and JAC leaders Bheemsena Rao, Sakae Govardhan, Ramakrishna, Narayanaswamy, and Rocketla Suryanarayana also participated.