High tension in Palasa, MLA Ashok arrested

Palasa, August 19: High tension prevailed in Srinivas Nagar of Palasa on Thursday night after officials of revenue and municipal departments went there along with proclainers to dismantle the houses.
 
The officials told the locals that they would dismantle the buildings as they were constructed illegally in the lake in 27th ward. Locals obstructed the officials, arguing that they have been living there for the past four decades and paying electricity and house tax. They questioned the officials, “Where we can we go if you knockdown our houses.”
 
Later, the officials tried to dismantle constructions near 27th ward TDP councilor G Suryanarayana house. But locals staged a dharna there, alleging that the officials are dismantling the buildings due to political enmity. 
 
Meanwhile, YSRCP leaders also reached the spot and situation turned tense due to arguments between YSRCP and TDP leaders. At around 12 am, Ichchapuram MLA B Ashok also went to the spot. Police sent the proclainers back and shifted Ashok to police station.
 
Palasa Tahsildar L Madhusudhan Rao informed that they have inspected the construction in the lake following High Court orders. ‘About 52 houses were constructed illegally near Srinivasa Nagar area. Locals obstructed the officials, who went to dismantle these structures. After hearing the locals’ complaint, we explained to them to give a written application, which we will submit to the High Court,’ he explained.