Dalits protest land reallocation to upper castes in Kadapa

Andhra Pradesh: Tensions flared in Kadapa as Dalit groups, led by the Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association, entered the 11th day of a relay hunger strike opposing the alleged reallocation of land originally granted to Dalits in 2005, now reportedly handed over to upper-caste individuals. Protesters called the move a grave injustice and demanded government intervention to restore their rightful land.

Dalits tie ropes, stage hunger strike in symbolic protest

In a powerful act of resistance on Thursday, protestors tied ropes around their hands and sat in hunger strike at the Kadapa RTO office, marking the 11th day of their agitation. Organized by the Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association, the relay fast seeks to draw attention to what they allege is a systemic and unlawful reallocation of Dalit land.

“Once land is allotted to Dalits, it belongs to them. If the government needs it back, it must provide alternative land—but giving it to upper castes is unacceptable,” said the demonstrators.

Land allotted in 2005 allegedly reassigned to upper castes

The disputed land was reportedly granted to Old Kadapa Dalit families in 2005. However, protesters say the same land has now been allocated to members of upper castes, with the support of revenue officials.

“This is a clear violation of Dalit rights and only possible with the active involvement of corrupt officials,” said Sangati Manohar, founding President of the Mahajana Rajyam Party.

He was joined by the retired officers Gopal and Gurrappa, District Industries Department officials, executive engineers, and High Court lawyer Amin Peer, who demanded transparency and justice from the authorities.

Call for SC Commission to review land documents

Protesters urged officials from the SC Commission in Vijayawada to investigate the land documents and verify the original allocation to Dalit beneficiaries. They also demanded legal action against individuals allegedly involved in the land grab, including Subba Reddy, Nirmalamma, and Narasimha, whom they accuse of orchestrating the encroachment.

“Land is life. It is our self-respect. We will not give it up under any circumstances,” emphasized Sangati Manohar.

Demands for accountability and action

The protestors emphasized that the land issue is not just about property but about dignity and survival. They demanded immediate intervention from the revenue department to resolve the dispute and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Those participating in the relay hunger strike included Venkata Subbaiah, Chinna Subbaiah, Diwakar, Veera Subbaiah, and Obulamma.

Wider community support strengthens the movement

The protest gained support from various community leaders and organizations, including Venkatesh and Madagalam Prasad (Honorary Presidents, Dalit Tribal Rights Struggle Association), as well as Chela Subbarayudu and Noor Bhasha Subhashin Rao from the Fishermen’s Association.

With mounting pressure and growing solidarity, the protestors vowed to intensify their agitation in the coming days if justice is not delivered.