Massive Land Acquisition Proposal Triggered Public Concern
When the then Chandrababu Naidu-led government proposed acquiring nearly 15,000 acres of land for the Bhogapuram Airport project, several villages faced the possibility of disappearing entirely. Local farmers and villagers questioned why such a vast extent of land was necessary for a single airport, fearing the loss of their homes, farmlands, and livelihoods.
Narsayamma’s Emotional Appeal at YS Jagan’s Public Meeting
In October 2015, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy held a public meeting to hear the concerns of people affected by the proposed land acquisition.
During the meeting, Narsayamma, a resident of Reddikancheru village, emotionally explained her family’s situation. She said that the two acres of agricultural land owned by her family was their only source of livelihood. With two sisters and a younger brother depending on that land, she questioned how they could survive if it was taken away.
“Why an Airbus in a Village Without a Red Bus?”
One statement made by Narsayamma became the defining moment of the meeting.
“Why do we need an Airbus in a village that doesn’t even have a Red Bus?”
Her remark drew widespread attention and was later repeated by YS Jagan during his speech.
She also questioned why the proposed land acquisition spared the nearby Sunray Resorts while targeting the homes and farmlands of poor villagers. Narsayamma expressed concern that if even the Indiramma houses provided during the YSR government were taken away, many families would be left homeless.
Public Protests and Political Pressure
The proposed land acquisition soon became the subject of widespread public debate. Local residents, farmers, and opposition parties organized protests demanding that the government reconsider the extent of land required for the airport.
The issue highlighted concerns over balancing infrastructure development with the protection of farmers’ rights and village livelihoods.
Reduction in Land Requirement
Following sustained protests and public opposition, the extent of land proposed for acquisition for the Bhogapuram Airport project was significantly reduced.
Residents of Reddikancheru say that this decision ultimately prevented their village from disappearing entirely, allowing it to remain intact despite the airport project moving forward.
A Symbol of People’s Resistance
For many locals, Narsayamma’s question represented much more than a personal grievance. It became a symbol of the struggle to protect their village, farmland, and right to livelihood.
With the Bhogapuram Airport now becoming operational, residents believe that the survival of Reddikancheru stands as a reminder of the collective resistance led by people like Narsayamma.
Many in the village feel that her name will be remembered in Reddikancheru’s history as a woman who courageously stood up to protect her village and the livelihoods of its people.
