Granite Mining Complaint to Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan
Meeting at Secretariat
Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Pawan Kalyan, held a courteous meeting at the state secretariat with Dr. Faggan Singh Kulaste, Member of Parliament from Mandla in Madhya Pradesh and Chairman of the Parliamentary Committee for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Welfare. The interaction took place in Velagapudi on Wednesday and was described as a goodwill visit aimed at strengthening cooperative federal spirit between the two states. During the conversation, both leaders discussed several matters related to the welfare of SC and ST communities, development opportunities and protection of rights for citizens working outside their native regions. The MP used the occasion to bring to the notice of the Deputy CM a specific problem faced by residents of Madhya Pradesh who are engaged in granite mining activities in the Sadum locality of Punganur constituency. Kulaste explained that the miners had obtained all required permissions from competent authorities and were ready to function according to prescribed norms, yet certain local political leaders were creating hurdles and issuing threats in the name of non-local status. He expressed concern that such behaviour was discouraging genuine investors and workers and was generating an atmosphere of fear among the permitted beneficiaries.
Assurance from Pawan Kalyan
Responding promptly, Pawan Kalyan made it clear that the coalition government would act firmly against anyone who obstructs lawful economic activity. He assured that the administrative machinery would stand beside the miners and ensure that only those who possess valid approvals would be allowed to continue operations. The Deputy CM stated that constitutional provisions grant every Indian the right to live and earn livelihood in any part of the country, irrespective of state boundaries. He reminded that India is one nation with shared identity and that regional differences cannot be used as an excuse to deny opportunities. Kalyan warned that interference despite permissions would invite action strictly under law and that intimidation would not be tolerated. He further promised to instruct district officials and policing units to monitor the situation and to facilitate smooth conduct of mining in compliance with environmental and labour regulations. The Deputy CM emphasised that development should be inclusive and that people from different states contribute to local economy and cultural exchange. His assurance reportedly gave relief to the MP and to the mining representatives who accompanied him. The Madhya Pradesh MP thanked Pawan Kalyan for understanding the seriousness and for offering immediate support.
Granite Mining Issue in Sadum
The core of the complaint relates to granite mining leases in Sadum, located within the limits of Punganur constituency, now part of the newly formed Annamayya district. According to Kulaste, the miners from Madhya Pradesh invested resources after receiving approvals for extraction and transportation of granite. However, some leaders questioned how outsiders could operate in the region and demanded that the process be stopped. Such leaders allegedly resorted to verbal threats and attempted to block entry of machinery. The MP argued that the miners were not violating any rule and were prepared to pay royalties and taxes to Andhra Pradesh government. He said that the obstruction was politically motivated and was damaging the image of the state. When the matter reached the Deputy CM, he sought details of the persons involved and assured that grievances would be addressed through proper channels. The Deputy CM also highlighted that any industry must respect local sentiments while following legal path, and that government would balance both aspects. Officials present in the meeting explained the procedure of permissions and confirmed that administrative action could be taken if there is unlawful interference. The MP insisted that immediate field level protection was required so that work could resume without delay. Pawan Kalyan reiterated that officers would verify the facts and would permit mining only by authorised parties. He promised coordination between mining department and home department to prevent further conflict.
Great Green Wall and Coastal Protection
In the same review meeting, Pawan Kalyan spoke about broader environmental initiatives of Andhra Pradesh. He underlined the need to protect coastal forests and to stop encroachments that are affecting ecological balance. The Deputy CM referred to the Great Green Wall project and the Green Cover programme which aim at increasing tree density along vulnerable zones. He instructed officials to prepare a route map before the end of January so that implementation could move at war footing. Kalyan suggested creation of a task force including all related government divisions such as forest, revenue, police and local bodies. The objective of the task force would be to safeguard natural resources, prevent illegal mining and ensure sustainable livelihood. The Deputy CM explained that environmental protection and lawful industry should go together and that Andhra Pradesh would become a model state in green governance. He asked officials to design mechanisms that support citizens while defending nature from exploitation. The Great Green Wall project would also generate employment for SC and ST communities and would help in social inclusion. The Deputy CM stressed that non-locals working in Andhra Pradesh must also respect these green policies. He conveyed that government would not compromise on ecological norms in any circumstance. His instructions were welcomed by officials and were seen as strong commitment to environment.
Constitutional Rights and Final Note
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After the discussions, Pawan Kalyan addressed media briefly and reiterated his stand on constitutional rights. He clarified that any Indian citizen can work in any state and that discrimination is unacceptable. He said that the coalition government represents inclusive ideology and would protect every lawful worker. The Deputy CM asked political leaders to avoid creating regional hatred and to cooperate for development of Punganur area. He also highlighted that SC and ST welfare remains top priority for his government. The granite mining issue would be reviewed legally and obstructionists would face action. Officials were instructed to submit a report and to ensure field level safety. The Deputy CM expressed hope that the meeting with the Madhya Pradesh MP would strengthen inter-state cooperation. Kulaste thanked Andhra Pradesh government and expressed confidence that miners in Sadum would get justice. The Deputy CM concluded that administration would follow one policy for all citizens and that India’s unity must reflect in local governance. The meeting ended with mutual respect and assurance of lawful resolution.
