Tribal farmers in Mahabubnagar and Vikarabad districts, have risen in revolt against the Congress government’s move to acquire their agricultural lands for a proposed pharma cluster. The contentious acquisition, covering 1,365 acres across villages like Polepalli, Hakimpeta, Pulicherla Thanda, Lagacharla, and Rotibanda Thandas, has sparked outrage. For nine months, the farmers have staged relentless protests, accusing the government of robbing their livelihoods under the guise of development.
The issue came to light when farmers, hoping to benefit from promised loan waiver, were devastated to learn that their lands had been marked for acquisition. Bank officials informed them that all their survey numbers were blocked by the government.The affected lands, cultivated by tribal farmers for generations, are their sole source of sustenance.
The fertile lands in Dudyala mandal, now targeted for acquisition, are a testament to the transformation brought by the KCR-led Telangana government’s initiatives like Mission Kakatiya. Once barren and drought-stricken, the area now thrives with crops and full reservoirs, such as the Kakaravani project and Bomraspet’s large tank. Farmland stretches as far as the eye can see, showcasing the hard work and resilience of local farmers.
Critics allege a deliberate conspiracy behind the move to set up a pharma cluster in Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s own constituency. Reportedly, the local officials claim the acquisition is being carried out with a ‘clear plan’ to displace poor farmers under the guise of development. The tribals worry that the proposed pharma cluster will lead to pollution, ruining their lands and livelihoods.
The affected lands, especially those along main roads, command a market value exceeding Rs. 1 crore per acre. Farmers are outraged that the government offers compensation as low as Rs. 60-70 lakh per acre for interior plots.
The farmers, who once believed that Revanth Reddy’s leadership would herald development, now feel betrayed. Farmer associations are also condemning the CM’s dismissive remarks about their lands, which they say reflect his arrogance and indifference to the plight of weaker sections.