Dalit House Demolition Sparks Massive Protest In Kadapa

Kadapa – Andhra Pradesh: Condemning a brutal midnight attack on Dalit families near the Kadapa Collectorate on Republic Day, leaders of various political parties and people’s organisations staged a massive protest on Thursday, demanding the arrest of the real culprits and justice for the victims.

• Midnight attack on Dalit families

On the intervening night of the 77th Republic Day, families of S Bhaskar and Bharavi—sons of former soldier S Narasimhulu from the SC Mala community—were allegedly attacked at Kandipalem, Yerrumukkappalli, near the railway station, just a short distance from the Kadapa Collectorate and bungalow. The families had reportedly been residing there for nearly 70 years.

The attackers allegedly dragged men, women, children and the elderly out of their homes and demolished the houses using JCBs and weapons while residents were asleep, creating panic and shock across the city.

• Allegations of premeditation and political protection

Protesters alleged that the incident was premeditated and carried out with brute force by hundreds of individuals, reportedly under the direct and indirect protection of a non-local MLA. They claimed the attack was aimed at intimidating oppressed and weaker sections of society.

• Massive protest for justice

In response, a large protest was organised on Wednesday, beginning at the demolished houses at 10 am. The rally passed through Rajiv Park and the statue of late IAS officer Subramanyam, culminating at the statue of Dr. B R Ambedkar at the RTC bus stand junction. Protesters raised slogans demanding justice, safety and dignity for Dalit communities.

• Memorandum submitted to District SP

Following the protest, leaders from various political parties and people’s organisations met the District Superintendent of Police and submitted a memorandum, urging immediate legal action against those responsible.

• Wide participation across parties and organisations

The protest witnessed participation from leaders of multiple political parties, trade unions, Dalit and BC organisations, minority forums and civil rights groups. Prominent participants included representatives from MRP, CPI, CPM, TDP, Congress, YSRCP, BSP, AAP, Lok Satta, Mala Mahanadu, MRPS, CITU, minority and disability rights forums, along with advocates, social activists and a large number of affected women and supporters.

• Call for accountability

Speakers at the protest asserted that attacks of this nature threaten constitutional values and social harmony. They called upon the administration to ensure accountability, uphold the rule of law and restore confidence among marginalised communities in the district.

Key demands raised

The demonstrators demanded:

• Registration of cases against the real culprits under all applicable laws, particularly the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act
• Inclusion of charges related to forcibly dragging and abusing women, children and the elderly
• Strict action to prevent recurrence of such incidents in Kadapa district and across the state

(Source: IAIJ/BIN/DPJB)