Hukumpeta Mandal, Alluri Seetharama Raju District – In a significant development, Vantala Devadasu, a member of the SC/ST Vigilance and Monitoring Committee of Alluri Seetharama Raju district, visited tribal villages affected by illegal black stone quarrying in the Kotnapalli Panchayat of Hukumpeta Mandal.
During the visit, Devadasu interacted with the local tribal residents and expressed concern over the alleged exploitation of innocent tribal communities. He stated that he is committed to safeguarding the rights of tribal people across the district and will not tolerate any injustice against them.
According to complaints received from the villagers, unauthorized quarrying activities have been carried out using forged documents, taking advantage of the illiteracy and innocence of tribal residents. Allegations have also emerged that locals were intimidated and coerced in the process.
The affected villagers submitted a formal petition to Devadasu, who assured them of justice(7-06-2025) . He personally inspected the homes of the victims and promised to bring the issue to the attention of the District Collector. Devadasu pledged to ensure that appropriate legal action would be taken in accordance with the law and justice would be delivered.
Several local representatives and community leaders accompanied him during the visit, including Kotnapalli MPTC S. Balakrishna, PESA Committee Vice President Apparao, Secretary Prasad, Ward Members Muthyamma and Pothuraju, and village elders Ramannadora and Rambabu, along with other residents.
The issue has raised serious concerns about illegal mining activities in tribal regions and the need for stricter oversight and enforcement of land rights and environmental laws.
