Farmers from Mandadam village in the Amaravati Capital Region have filed serious complaints with the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank, alleging intimidation and coercion by the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA). The farmers, who identify themselves as non-LPS (Land Pooling Scheme) participants, claim they are being pressured into surrendering their ancestral lands for Amaravati’s development without fair compensation.
According to the farmers, APCRDA officials have issued threats, warning of legal consequences for those refusing to comply with land acquisition demands. Many villagers say they feel cornered, with promises of rehabilitation and fair treatment remaining unfulfilled. The grievances highlight growing distrust and resentment in the Amaravati region, where land pooling has long been a contentious issue.
In its defense, the APCRDA has denied allegations of misconduct, insisting that all land acquisition processes are carried out lawfully and with respect for farmers’ rights. Officials argue that developing Amaravati is essential for the state’s progress and claim the farmers will be protected under due process.
The escalation to international lenders has intensified scrutiny of the capital city project. As the ADB and World Bank are known for strict social and environmental safeguards, their review of the complaints could impact both current and future funding for Amaravati’s development.
For the farmers of Mandadam, the fight has become more than a battle for land—it is about justice, dignity, and preserving livelihoods. The outcome of these complaints could set a precedent for how large-scale land acquisition disputes are handled in India, making the case one to watch closely in the coming months.
