The Government of Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (SIPCAT) has sparked controversy in Thiruvannamalai district by announcing plans to acquire agricultural land in 9 panchayats for the construction of a new industrial complex. The affected areas include Thethurai, Kurumpur, Veerambakkam, Nedungal, Ilanir Kunram, Narmapallam, Vada Alappirandhan, and Athi around Melma village under Anakavur union.
Farmers in the region have been vehemently opposing the acquisition, leading to a 150-day long protest. The situation escalated further as the police arrested 7 farmers under the gangster act, drawing outrage from various political party leaders. BJP state president Annamalai has announced a protest against the government’s actions in response to the arrests.
On social media, the BJP leader condemned the arrest of the farmers who were peacefully protesting against the encroachment of agricultural lands, calling it a suppression of the DMK government.
The controversial decision by SIPCAT has stirred up significant opposition, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the government and the farming community in Thiruvannamalai district. With protests and political statements gaining momentum, the fate of the proposed industrial complex remains uncertain as the standoff continues.