Khanapur MLA Vedma Bojju Patel has strongly criticized the actions of the Forest Department, saying their behavior toward tribal communities, as well as SC, BC, and minority groups, is unfair and could lead to serious backlash.
Speaking at a key meeting in Hyderabad’s Secretariat, chaired by Ministers DA Seethakka and Konda Surekha, the MLA expressed frustration over how officials are handling issues on the ground.
He said that officers working from the comfort of air-conditioned rooms should not send lower-level staff to enforce rules that end up troubling local people. Instead, he urged department leaders to visit villages directly, understand the real problems, and find practical solutions.
He demanded immediate approval for digging borewells under the Indira Soura Giri Jal Vikasam Scheme to help meet water needs in rural areas.
The MLA also asked for permissions to allow heavy vehicles into the Kawal Tiger Reserve Zone, stressing that local tribals depend on the forest for their daily income. Blocking their access, he warned, could spark a public revolt.
Patel emphasized that people collecting bamboo and beedi leaves for a living should not face harassment. He asked the State Government not to interfere with development projects such as three-phase electricity, cement concrete roads, and Indiramma housing.
He pointed out that the government is already working to improve infrastructure in remote forest villages like Allampalli, Wayipet, and Ankenarayadhari, and that these efforts must continue without delays or obstacles.
According to him, protecting the rights and livelihoods of tribal communities is essential, and development work in forest regions should move forward without unnecessary restrictions.
