CPM Alleges 700 Houses Demolished in Undi, Demands Probe

PALAKODERU, mandal headquarters in West Godavari, located 7 km from Bhimavaram city, has been in the media spotlight for the past 10 days following the demolition of 39 houses in Alluri Sitarama Raju Nagar by revenue authorities.

- KV SAILENDRA @Rajamahendravaram

Palakoderu mandal is part of the Undi assembly constituency, represented by Deputy Speaker Kanumuru Raghu Rama Krishna Raju. The demolition, carried out on April 20 using JCBs and proclaimers, has sparked controversy in the district.

The authorities cited environmental and pollution concerns for the removal of encroachments.

However, the demolitions have continued at a rapid pace, reflecting a persistent attitude towards those living in poverty.

A widespread perception of the poor as freeloaders, land grabbers, and encroachers seems prevalent, even among government officials, and is evident during these demolition drives.

A total of 130 families had been residing in 110 houses on Irrigation Poramboku land in Palakoderu village for the past 40 years.