In a major development, the Forest Department has filed a case against senior YSR Congress Party leader and Punganur MLA Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, along with several family members, for alleged illegal encroachment of forest land in Mangalam Peta, Pulicherla Mandal of Chittoor district.
The complaint, registered on May 6, includes serious charges of unauthorized occupation of nearly 28 acres of protected forest land. Along with Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy, the accused include his son and Rajampet MP Peddireddy Mithun Reddy, his brother and Tamballapalle MLA Peddireddy Dwarakanatha Reddy, and his brother’s wife Indiramma. According to officials, the family not only encroached upon the forest area but also caused significant damage to the region’s biodiversity.
The case gained momentum following a high-profile investigative report titled “Illegal Empire in the Forest” published in January this year. In response, the state government formed a special fact-finding committee comprising District Collector Sumit Kumar, SP Manikantha, and Forest Conservator Yashodabai. Their ground-level investigation confirmed the illegal encroachment and revealed that a borewell was dug without proper authorization.
Forest officials estimate that the environmental damage caused by the encroachment exceeds ₹1 crore. Currently, steps are being taken to demarcate the encroached land using stone markers—a process expected to be completed within a week. A formal chargesheet is also being prepared for submission to the Pakala court.
In a significant political response, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has reportedly taken a firm stand on the issue. Acting on his directive, authorities are actively exploring criminal charges against the accused. Moreover, disciplinary proceedings may be initiated against any government officials found to have supported or facilitated the illegal activities, as their involvement is under investigation.
This high-profile case has sparked sharp public and political interest, especially amid growing calls for transparency and accountability in land and environmental governance.
