Hyderabad: Telangana’s Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy made it clear on Sunday that the state government will not take "even an inch" of land belonging to Dalits.

Dismissing concerns over land acquisitions, the minister stated that seizing land from Dalits and tribals goes directly against the core principles of the “people's government”.

Assuring the community that Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s administration acts as a complete safeguard for Dalit land rights, Srinivasa Reddy urged citizens not to fall prey to fear or anxiety.

"The government will not take away even an inch of your land. This government has no intention of acquiring your land. There is no need for you to feel any fear or anxiety regarding your lands; the people's government stands by you," the minister said in a direct address to Dalit landowners.

The minister's clarification follows recent reports of revenue officials issuing notices to 120 Dalit farmers in Erravalli village, requesting them to present valid documentation and ownership records for their property. This exercise was launched after Chief Minister Revanth Reddy announced an official probe in the Assembly regarding former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao’s (KCR) farmhouse in Erravalli, located in Siddipet district. The Chief Minister had alleged that the 700-acre estate includes approximately 388 acres of government land.

Addressing these actions, Srinivasa Reddy clarified that routine administrative procedures like surveys, verification of land records, and dispute resolution should not be misconstrued as land grabs. He explained that the government's true objective is to clearly establish land rights, settle long-standing disputes, and protect rightful owners.

The minister accused powerful vested interests of circulating false propaganda to panic Dalit communities for political gain.

"There is no need to fear what others might say. The government offers a clear assurance regarding your lands. Do not believe any malicious propaganda without verifying the facts," he warned, stressing that all state actions remain fully transparent and lawful.

Srinivasa Reddy emphasised that the Congress party owes its mandate to the support of Dalits, tribals, and marginalised communities. He noted that Congress administrations have historically championed social justice, poor relief, and land reforms at both national and state levels.

Highlighting historical achievements, he stated that previous Congress governments distributed around 25 lakh acres of land to Dalits across the Telangana region, alongside granting ownership rights for nearly 2 lakh acres of 'Podu' lands to tribal families. The administration remains committed to providing land and rights to those who lack them while safeguarding existing holdings.

Launching a direct attack on the BRS chief, Srinivasa Reddy labeled KCR a 'Dora' (feudal lord) and reminded the public of the previous administration's unfulfilled pledge to grant three acres of land to every landless Dalit family. (IANS)