SRIKAKULAM: The oustees of Padali, Tulagam and other villages of the Vasmsadhara second phase of Hiramandal went on a rampage at Duggupuram village of the district on Sunday. They are demanding better rehabilitation package and remuneration as per the current prices. The oustees said that they were not taken into confidence on the package offer. The enraged oustees destroyed the tents and chairs. The issue became sensitive and tension prevailed at the site. But the police their cool. The villagers left the site after destroying the tents and furniture.
With the demand of the oustees for better package, the second phase works of the Vamsadhara have been hanging fire. Earlier also, when the officials tried to start the works the oustees opposed and stopped the works since the latter’s demands were not conceded. Against this backdrop, the Irrigation department officials went to Duggupuram village and erected temporary tents, arranged furniture to re-start the second phase works. Expressing their anger on the attempt to re-start the works, as many as 500 locals of Padali, Tulagam and Duggupuram villages rushed to the site office and argued with the officials.
Though the officials tried to pacify them, the villagers asked the officials to remove the tents and go back. As the officials kept mum, the enraged villagers with sticks in their hands destroyed the tents and furniture. To protect the officials, the police whisked them away.No case was registered against any person and none was taken into custody.
The officials informed the collector and other officials about the incident. The villagers gave an ultimatum to the government that unless better package and compensation are announced, they will never allow the second phase works of the Vamsadhara project. Meanwhile, the Left parties announced complete support to the oustees.