Date:14/05/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/05/14/stories/2005051410270500.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Mango groves get police protection

Staff Reporter

Tribal farmers stake claim, locals protest

KHAMMAM: Mango groves in an extent of about 100 acres were provided police protection in Ranguvari gudem village of Dammapet mandal due to a confrontation between local farmers and tribals. The tribal organisations stalked claim for the land on the plea that it belonged to the Government. They prevented other farmers from harvesting the crop, leading to renewed tension.

The deployment of police in the village helped avoid untoward incidents. The farmers made a representation to the revenue authorities on this issue and claimed ownership of the land. They moved the court before the paddy harvest as the tribals came in their way in the last kharif.

To resume `fight'

The tribals in Dammapet mandal were organising themselves to resume the fight for distribution of Government lands. They complain that the lands, which belonged to them were illegally occupied by non-tribal farmers in certain survey numbers in the mandal. They wanted the revenue officials to intervene and ensure justice.