Date:17/10/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/10/17/stories/2008101754600400.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Naidu targets government

Staff Reporter

Says SEZs are being promoted in blatant violation of norms

— Photo. S Rambabu

Attentive listeners: TDP president N. Chandrababu Naidu addressing a public meeting in Kakinada on Thursday.

Kakinada: TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu launched a scathing attack against the Congress Government for making the lives of farmers miserable by promoting Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in blatant violation of norms.

Lands measuring 0.5 to 2.5 acres were being either forcibly acquired from them or they were misled to part with their valuable lands for prices substantially lower than those prevailing in the market, he observed.

Addressing a public meeting in front of the Collector office here on Thursday, Mr. Naidu said the government did not heed the advice of noted agronomist M.S. Swaminathan not to take over lands owned by farmers as it would have an adverse impact on agricultural output and also their livelihoods.

Issues warning

The government had hatched a conspiracy to ‘usurp’ 10 to 15 lakh acres of land in the name of development but the TDP would not allow the gullible people to be exploited for the benefit of vested interests.

Whether it was the Coastal Corridor or SEZs, the TDP would not tolerate any injustice as the party was firmly committed to ensure their welfare. He said that people should realize the intentions of the Congress and exercise a proper choice in the ensuing elections. On its part, the TDP would not give up its fight for the welfare of the masses who continue to be fleeced by businessmen whose interests were being protected by the ruling party.

TDP leaders Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, N Chinna Rajappa, Gorantla Butchaiah Chowdary, Metla Satyanarayana Rao, Chikkala Ramachandra Rao and others were present.