GADWAL: On Monday, Aiza town witnessed a rare display of political unity as leaders from various parties, civil society groups, and residents gathered to protest outside the Aiza Municipal Office. They accused officials of ignoring civic issues while focusing on aggressive tax collection.
The All-Party Committee organized the protest, which started at 10 a.m. Hundreds of people gathered, holding placards and chanting slogans. They criticized the municipality for being highly ranked in tax collection but failing to provide basic services.
Mismanagement Allegations
Protesters claimed that the municipality, despite being fourth in Telangana for tax revenue, neglected its basic responsibilities. They accused officials, including the Commissioner, of corruption and misusing funds while ignoring civic work. “Officials talk about revenue but ignore our problems,” a resident said.
Civic Issues
Protesters highlighted the poor living conditions in Aiza:
- Roads: Most streets are damaged. Open excavations from Mission Bhagiratha are dangerous.
- Drainage: Stagnant sewage and clogged canals are common, with little drainage in some areas causing mosquito problems.
- Flooding: In Old Village, rainwater enters homes, causing distress. Areas like Telugu Peta and Sharanabasappa Doddi are severely affected.
- New Colonies: Areas such as Bharatnagar and Vedanagar lack drainage systems despite being major tax contributors. Roads are selectively paved based on political influence.
Public Outcry
Protesters argued that the lack of public pressure led to complacency among officials. All-Party Committee President Jagapati Reddy warned that without accountability, corruption would worsen.
Police Presence
SI Srinivasa Rao led local police to ensure peace during the protest, which ended without incident.
Unified Leadership
The protest included leaders from various parties and groups:
- BRS: Nagardoddi Venkatramudu, Kurava Pallaiah, Rangumaddi Leti
- BJP: Former District President Ramachandra Reddy, Medical Tirumala Reddy
- TDP: Tandrapadu Sudhakar Goud
- Red Cross: Taher
- Bhim Army: Macharla Prakash
- Civil society: Vijaya Bhaskar Reddy, Chakali Anjaneyulu
- MRPS: Anjaneyulu, Dakkali SuJtha, Raja ratnam
This unusual gathering of rival parties highlighted public frustration.
Future Actions
Protesters warned of stronger actions if their demands were ignored. They urged the District Collector’s office, 30 km away, to intervene and ensure accountability in Aiza’s civic management.
