Summary of "CHITTOOR UPDATE NEWS 16 03 2026"

Kuppam airport — protest against forcible land acquisition

Congress leaders in Chittoor, led by City President Tikki Royal and Secretary Avula Gopi, filed a petition with in‑charge Collector Rajendran at the Public Issues Resolution Forum to protest the state’s land acquisition for the proposed Kuppam airport.

Overview

The party says the government is trying to acquire land from small farmers in Shantipuram and Ramakuppam mandals of Kuppam constituency (Chittoor district) to make way for an airport and related industries.
The protest alleges acquisitions are being carried out without gram sabhas or meaningful consultation and describes the process as “forcible” and unfair.

Main points and claims

Roughly 160 acres from 44 poor farmers are being targeted specifically for the new Kuppam airport; about 2,000 acres across Shantipuram and Ramakuppam mandals are being acquired for industries including the airport.
Acquisitions are reportedly happening without gram sabhas or adequate consultation with affected farmers.
Protesters say cash compensation offers are far too low; one subtitle example contrasted land “worth crores” with a government offer of 17,000.
There is a fear that displaced farmers, if paid cash and forced to sell, will become agricultural laborers rather than retain independent livelihoods.

Reported farmer distress

Leaders reported severe distress among farmers. One affected farmer, Venkatappa, was said to have been hospitalized after being devastated by the prospect of losing seven acres. (Subtitles in reports conflicted between hospitalization and death.)

Demands made to authorities

Stop seizing farmer land; use only government land for the airport.
Return lands already taken, or compensate and provide support to affected farmers.
Offer land‑for‑land compensation rather than cash.
Increase compensation amounts or provide land exchange options.
Hold gram sabhas to consult affected communities.
The Chief Minister should personally meet and resolve the issue rather than leaving it solely to officials.