Andhra Pradesh farmers demand full compensation before Veligonda project relocation

Multiple farmers' organisations in Andhra Pradesh have raised objections to what they describe as the government's hasty implementation of displacement procedures related to the Veligonda project. The A.P. Rythu Sangham, A.P. Agricultural Workers' Union, and A.P. Tenant Farmers' Association have jointly demanded that authorities prioritise full compensation for all affected families prior to their resettlement.

The groups have expressed concern that the current approach fails to adequately address the financial security of displaced persons. They argue that moving families without securing comprehensive compensation packages leaves them vulnerable to economic hardship and creates uncertainty about their future livelihoods.

The Veligonda project, a major irrigation initiative, requires the relocation of several farming communities. The farmers' unions contend that the government must establish transparent mechanisms to calculate fair compensation based on land valuations, agricultural losses, and rehabilitation costs before proceeding with any displacement activities.

The organisations have urged state officials to engage in meaningful dialogue with affected communities and their representatives to develop a compensation framework that adequately protects the interests of displaced farmers and agricultural workers. They have indicated that failure to address these concerns could lead to organised resistance to the project's implementation.