Simhachalam Panchagramalu Residents Demand Land Titles
The leaders demanded cancellation of ryotwari pattas, recognition of residents’ rights and lifting of restrictions
VISAKHAPATNAM: The CPM on Wednesday intensified its agitation over the Simhachalam land issue, warning the government against further delay in resolving the dispute and demanding issuance of land titles to residents.
On the fourth day of a padayatra, the protest passed through Vepagunta, Prashanti Nagar, Vidya Nagar and Gautam Nagar, with residents participating and raising slogans seeking a government order and ownership rights.
CPM leaders B. Jagan, B. Venkata Rao and P. Venkat Reddy Sastry alleged that the issue has remained unresolved for decades despite repeated representations. They said the dispute affects the livelihood of several families.
The leaders alleged that land was registered under the Simhachalam Devasthanam as ryotwari land during 1996–97 without legal basis and objected to G.O. No. 578, which classified residents as encroachers.
They also criticised a 2017 status quo order that halted registrations, sales and repairs, stating that it affected residents.
The leaders demanded cancellation of ryotwari pattas, recognition of residents’ rights and lifting of restrictions.
Party leaders and residents said the agitation would be intensified until a resolution is reached.
