CPM Accuses AP Govt of Massive Land Scams

VIJAYAWADA: The CPM leaders demanded that the government immediately halt the privatisation of Bhavani Island, where G.O. 42 allows corporate leasing of nearly 230 acres valued at `4,600 crore. They also sought cancellation of G.O. 137, which allotted the old bus stand land worth `400 crore to Lulu Mall. Addressing a press conference, CPM state secretariat member Ch. Babu Rao and state committee member Donepudi Kashinath said the coalition has surpassed the previous regime in land grab scandals within just 18 months. They alleged that lands worth nearly `5,825 crore in Vijayawada alone have been leased out or occupied under the guise of development. Around 248 acres of valuable government property, including 13 acres allegedly encroached, are now in the hands of big companies, they said. Babu Rao accused ruling leaders of being at the forefront of land grabs. “The previous government was criticised for encroaching on temples and irrigation lands. But the present coalition is breaking all records,” he stated. The party criticised encroachments on Satavahana College land, SRR College land, and the demolition of homes in Joji Nagar under “bulldozer culture”. They alleged that religious endowment lands, municipal properties, and tourism assets including Haritha Resorts are being handed over with additional benefits like stamp duty waivers, GST refunds, and reduced power charges. Stating that public lands must be used for public welfare, Babu Rao said the CPM would mobilise people and launch sustained struggles against land scams and corporate favours.