Protestors demand action on longstanding Dalit land disputes

Andhra Pradesh: On the fourth day of a relay hunger strike at the RDO office in Kadapa, leaders from the CPIML Liberation and Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association (Dalita girijanual hakkula poraata sangham) intensified their demand for justice in a long-pending land issue affecting Dalit farmers of Old Kadapa.

Fourth day of hunger strike led by CPIML

CPIML Liberation District Secretary Bandelu Obayya launched the fourth day of the ongoing relay hunger strike at the Kadapa RDO office, demanding resolution of land issues faced by Dalit farmers. The strike is being held under the banner of the Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association (DGHPS), which is spearheading the protest.

Broad participation by rights groups

Obulesu, Ramudu, Venkatasubbayya, Balakrishna and Diwakar took active part in the relay hunger strike. DGHPS District Presidents and Secretaries Taslim and Lakshmidevi, and leaders from allied organizations like the Farmers’ Association, represented by Pratap Reddy and Chinna Subbayya, also extended their support.

The fourth day concluded with the distribution of buttermilk to participants, symbolizing resilience and peaceful resistance. Organizers vowed to intensify the protest until justice is delivered.

DGHPS District Honorary Presidents Venkatesh and Madagalam Prasad announced the next phase of protests.

Blindfold protest at 7 Roads Circle

In continuation of their agitation, the Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association will organize a blindfold protest on Friday at 11 am, at 7 Roads Circle in Kadapa. The demonstration aims to condemn the “blind eye” allegedly turned by authorities and rulers towards Dalit rights and land injustices.

Demand for land justice

The movement calls on the government to address the unresolved land issues concerning Dalit farmers of Old Kadapa, citing decades of neglect and administrative apathy. Protesters stress that the hunger strike and follow-up actions will continue until justice is delivered.