Compensation Before Construction: DYFI Backs Jangaon Plot Owners in NH-365B Land Protest

Jangaon: The issue of land acquisition for National Highway 365B has sparked protests in Jangaon town, as plot owners facing displacement continue their relay hunger strike for the eighth consecutive day. The protestors are demanding fair compensation before the commencement of highway construction works.

District Working President of the Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI), Pantham Sai Prasad, extended his support to the agitating plot owners and urged the government to resolve the issue on humanitarian grounds.

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Demand for Compensation Before Construction

Speaking at the protest site near Ekashila Gadda in Jangaon, Sai Prasad emphasized that construction of National Highway 365B should begin only after the affected plot owners are paid adequate compensation.

He stated that many of the affected individuals are poor families, farmers, and small traders who had purchased plots in Jangaon town with their hard-earned savings. These investments were made with hopes of securing their children’s future and ensuring financial stability. However, the proposed highway alignment has now put their properties at risk.

“Instead of safeguarding their future, the project has turned into a burden for them,” he remarked, expressing concern over the difficulties being faced by the victims.

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Allegations of Administrative Delays

Sai Prasad criticized officials for allegedly creating hurdles by citing minor technical reasons and delaying compensation payments. He argued that such actions are unfair and add to the distress of affected families.

He urged the authorities to strictly implement the provisions of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013. According to him, the Act clearly mandates:

• Fair and enhanced compensation

• Rehabilitation and resettlement for affected families

• Land-for-land provisions in certain cases

• Livelihood support if land is the primary source of income

He questioned whether these provisions are being properly followed in the current land acquisition process.

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Call for a Humane Approach

The DYFI leader appealed to the government to view the issue not merely as a development project but as a matter affecting people’s lives and livelihoods. He demanded immediate dialogue with the affected plot owners and resolution of their grievances before proceeding further with construction activities.

“Development should not come at the cost of justice,” he said, reiterating the demand that compensation be paid first and that rehabilitation measures be clearly implemented.

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Leaders Present at the Protest

Several leaders and activists participated in the protest and extended solidarity to the agitating plot owners. Among them were CPM district committee members Budidi Gopi, Teegulla Reddy, Velangini Jitta Narasimhulu, Bajjuri Ashok, Uppari Vijay, Tudi Sudarshan, Sudhakar, Parameshwari, Nalla Yadagiri, Panneeru Jaganmohan, Renuka, Konda Yadagiri, and Teegulla Andalu, among others.

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Balancing Development and Rights

The National Highway expansion is part of broader infrastructure development efforts aimed at improving connectivity and boosting economic growth. However, the situation in Jangaon highlights the continuing challenge of balancing development goals with the rights and welfare of affected citizens.

As the relay hunger strike enters its eighth day, all eyes are now on the district administration and state government to respond to the demands and ensure that due process is followed in accordance with the law.

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