CPI(M) opposes Centre’s nod for mining in Agency areas

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CPI (M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao. | Photo Credit: File Photo

The CPI(M) has opposed the Centre’s decision to permit mining surveys in the Agency areas, alleging that it violates constitutional safeguards protecting the tribal regions.

Addressing a press conference in Vijayawada on Wednesday, party State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao said the move would facilitate private companies’ access to valuable minerals, including gold, beach sand, iron ore and bauxite, under the guise of Ease-of-Doing Business.

“Mining surveys cannot be undertaken without the consent of Gram Sabhas under the PESA Act and consultation with the Tribal Advisory Council,,” he said, stating that bypassing these safeguards infringes tribal rights and could trigger unrest similar to the anti-bauxite mining agitations.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao also condemned the alleged denial of degree certificates to nine SFI students during the Tribal University convocation attended by the President, demanding action against those responsible. He criticised the lack of infrastructure, faculty and hostel facilities at the university and questioned the decision to hold the convocation at a private hotel instead of the university campus.

Expressing solidarity with MGNREGS workers, he demanded restoration of earlier provisions of the employment guarantee scheme, alleging that the revised guidelines would reduce employment opportunities. He also criticised the mandatory facial recognition attendance system, saying poor network connectivity had caused hardship to workers.

Seeking an extension of the deadline for the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, he said the process was too complicated for many citizens and warned that exclusion from voter lists could affect welfare benefits. He also urged the State government to withdraw its permission for beach shacks, citing possible law and order concerns.