Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh: Police intervened and foiled the attempt of a hunger strike launched by the villagers from Gummaladoddi village in East Godavari district, reported Times of India. The villagers were protesting against Assago Ethanol Industries. Three villagers—Siva Ganesh, Surya Chandra Rao, and Sridevi—who had been on hunger strike for five days, took shelter in a temple fearing they might be arrested.
The police entered the temple, took the three protesters into custody, and admitted them to the Government General Hospital in Rajahmundry as their health had begun to worsen. Additionally, police detained 15 other villagers to prevent further protest actions.
East Godavari District Collector P. Prasanthi visited the village and examined areas close to the factory, accompanied by several villagers. She assured residents that a full report on air, water, and noise pollution would be prepared and that appropriate steps would be taken based on the findings. The Collector also visited the ethanol plant with five villagers to look into its production process.
The Collector said a committee has been formed to investigate the pollution concerns, with a report expected within a week. Korukonda Inspector Satya Kishore confirmed that police have set up a watch post in the village to keep an eye on the situation.
