The CPI(M) is protesting and seeking a permanent solution to the ‘Pancha Gramal’ land dispute.

CPI(M) leaders along with residents are staging a protest in front of the Visakhapatnam Collectorate on Monday demanding a permanent solution to the long-running ‘Pancha Gramal’ land dispute and protection of the rights of legal land owners in Visakhapatnam. | Photo credit: KR DEEPAK

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) (CPI(M)) staged a protest outside the Visakhapatnam Collectorate on Monday, demanding a permanent resolution to the long-running ‘Pancha Gramal’ (five villages) land dispute and protection of the rights of the rightful owners of the land.

The delegation later submitted a memorandum to the District Collector on behalf of thousands of affected residents.

Reacting to the protest, CPI(M) Visakhapatnam district secretary M. Jaggu Naidu said the land dispute arose after title deeds were issued in favor of the temple by the then revenue authorities in 1996-97, despite the Gilman Survey Report of 1903 recognizing the rights of local residents. He said thousands of families have been facing uncertainty over land ownership for decades.

Mr. Jaggu Naidu alleged that the government used to facilitate registrations and collect stamp duty and registration fees on these properties, but now the landowners could not exercise their ownership rights. In Survey No. 275, he urged the government to protect the rights of legally registered landowners based on revenue records and issue patta on the land to eligible families who have been residing for decades.

The CPI(M) also demanded that until a permanent settlement is reached, the government should ensure that legitimate land owners do not face any hurdles in real estate transactions, construction activities or availing bank loans. The party has warned that it will intensify its agitation if the issue remains unresolved.

Published – 06 Jul 2026 21:15 IST