Ethanol firm seeks damages from Andhra farmer over pollution allegations

Sentini BioProducts Pvt. Ltd. has initiated legal proceedings against M. Muralidhar Reddy, a farmer from Gandepalli village near Keesara in Andhra Pradesh's NTR district, over allegations he made regarding pollution from the company's operations.

According to court filings, the ethanol manufacturer claims the farmer made misleading and malicious statements that have harmed the company's reputation. The firm is seeking ₹1 crore in damages as compensation for the alleged defamatory remarks.

Beyond monetary relief, Sentini BioProducts has requested that the court issue a perpetual injunction restraining Reddy from making any further statements against the company that could be construed as false or damaging. The company has also demanded a public apology from the farmer.

The case represents a growing trend of corporations using legal action against individuals who publicly criticize their environmental practices. Environmental concerns around industrial facilities, particularly those in agricultural regions, remain a contentious issue across India.