"Shankar Rao Encroached On Lands"

A farmers' delegation from Mahabubnagar district on Monday demanded the dismissal of Textiles and Handlooms Minister P Shankar Rao from the Cabinet, alleging that he had occupied government lands.

A representation to this effect was submitted to Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy at his camp office, by farmers from Mamidipally village (Kothuru mandal, Mahabubnagar district).

Shankar Rao had encroached upon 27 acres in Kothuru mandal, which resulted in heavy losses to the farmers, former ZPTC Shyamsunder Reddy told mediaperons.

The farmers also submitted documentary evidences to prove their allegations.

A tank was constructed during the Nizam's period, using which farmers has irrigated nearly 500 acres and used as a source of drinking water. The minister allegedly conspired with the local Congress leaders and farmers and got patta land of 32 acres under Survey Number 129 registered illegally in his daughter Sushmitha's name.

The farmers alleged that Shankar Rao had detonated the bund of the tank with an ulterior motive to make the land unfit for water storage, in order to completely take it over.

The delegation urged the Chief Minister to sanction Rs. 10 lakhs for repairs to the tank bund to restore to them drinking and irrigation facilities.

Shayamsunder Reddy also circulated photo copies that show that the minister had attempted to sell the land for Rs. 1.70 crore.

MRO Rangacharyulu had earlier assured help to the farmers, but had backed out, allegedly. Copies of the representations were given to the District Collector, the Home Minister, the MP of Mahabubnagar district and the MLA of Shadnagar. (INN)