Mon Jan 19 11:30:09 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Andhra Pradesh: Dalit Groups Demand Investigation into Alleged Discrimination in Vizianagaram
The Story:
Dalit associations in Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh, are demanding an investigation into alleged discrimination against residents of a Scheduled Caste (SC) colony in Munjeru village of Bhogapuram mandal. Advocate Y. Rama Chaitanya and Dalit leaders claim that influential individuals have diverted drainage water into the SC colony after occupying lands intended for drainage flow. Residents have been protesting for four weeks without government intervention, leading to health concerns due to contaminated groundwater.
Key Points:
- January 19, 2026: Dalit associations and advocate Y. Rama Chaitanya appeal to Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy for an investigation.
- Residents of SC colony in Munjeru, Bhogapuram mandal, are allegedly affected by diverted drainage water.
- The diversion is reportedly due to the occupation of land meant for drainage by influential people.
- Protests by residents have been ongoing for four weeks.
- Nellimarla MLA Lokam Madhavi is reportedly attempting to resolve the issue by constructing a new drainage system.
- Collector S. Ramsundar Reddy has directed local officials to submit a report on the situation.
Key Takeaways:
- The incident highlights ongoing issues of caste-based discrimination and marginalization in Andhra Pradesh.
- The alleged diversion of drainage water raises concerns about land rights and the exploitation of vulnerable communities.
- The delayed government response underscores the need for more effective mechanisms to address grievances of marginalized groups.
- MLA’s and Collector’s intervention suggests a willingness to address the issue but effectiveness remains to be seen.
First Piper 