TDP wants AP govt to review its SEZ policy

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) today asked the Andhra Pradesh government to review its policy on special economic zones (SEZ) and safeguard the interests of farmers and fishermen while implementing them.

A resolution to this effect was adopted at the TDP annual conference 'Mahanadu' here today. TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu chaired the proceedings.

The party expressed serious concern over the forcible acquisition of fertile agriculture lands to the extent of over 1 lakh acres from small and marginal farmers for the establishment of SEZs in the state.

It also wanted the government to regulate establishment of SEZs and prevent fertile agriculture lands from being taken away for the purpose.

"Another 28,000 acres of land was being taken away in the name of Vanpic and Coastal Corridor projects. Besides, a petro-chemical corridor has been proposed along the east coast, which would deprive thousands of fishermen of their livelihood and displace people in eight coastal villages," the TDP apprehended.

The party said though the highest number of SEZs (90) were sanctioned in Andhra Pradesh alone, not even 10 have been taken off so far and the much-promised employment to lakhs of people remained just a dream.

"Keeping all this in view, there is an urgent need for the government to review its policy on SEZs. It should not acquire fertile agriculture lands for the SEZs and other projects," the TDP demanded.