CPI Targets Union Policies During Visakhapatnam Padayatra Launch
Communist Party of India leaders initiated a protest march in Visakhapatnam to challenge the Union government's record on public promises. The demonstration highlights concerns over local industrial data centers and their potential environmental impact.
Key takeaways
- The CPI launched its 'Modi Hatao, Desh Bachao' padayatra from Visakhapatnam's Poorna Market on August 7, 2026.
- Leadership criticized the Union government for failing to fulfill public promises and targeting youth activists.
- Protesters raised environmental alarms regarding the planned 7.1 GW data center capacity in the north Andhra region.
- The nationwide campaign is scheduled to end with a major demonstration at Delhi's Ramlila Maidan on September 1.
The Campaign Against Union Policy
Communist Party of India (CPI) activists and senior leaders converged in Visakhapatnam on August 7, 2026, to launch the 'Modi Hatao, Desh Bachao' padayatra. Commencing at the Alluri Sitarama Raju statue in Poorna Market, the march represents part of a nationwide initiative that began on August 6. J.V. Satyanarayana Murthy, a member of the CPI State Secretariat, led the proceedings, asserting that the Narendra Modi-led administration has neglected its commitments to the citizenry while suppressing youth-led movements to distract from administrative failings.
Environmental Concerns in North Andhra
During the event, Mr. Murthy directed attention toward proposed industrial developments in north Andhra, specifically the planned 7.1 GW of data center capacity. The CPI leadership argues that these facilities pose a significant threat to regional water security and ecological stability. Murthy called for a formal review of these proposals by the State government and specifically challenged Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan to detail his position regarding the environmental consequences of such large-scale projects.
Key Facts
- The 'Modi Hatao, Desh Bachao' campaign is a nationwide protest series running from August 6 to September 1, 2026.
- The Visakhapatnam leg of the march was spearheaded by CPI State Secretariat member J.V. Satyanarayana Murthy.
- Protesters are demanding a review of 7.1 GW data center projects due to anticipated strain on water and environmental resources.
- The movement will conclude with a mass rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi.
- Prominent attendees included district secretary S.K. Rahiman and several assistant secretaries including P. Chandrasekhar and M.D. Begum.
What Happens Next
The padayatra serves as a lead-up to a major national gathering. Following the regional demonstrations, the CPI plans to mobilize supporters for a culminating rally at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan on September 1. Local focus remains on the State government's response to demands for a review of industrial data center plans in Andhra Pradesh.
Source: The Hindu — National
Related stories
Andhra Pradesh to Legislate BC Protections as Naidu Debuts Netanna Sevalo Scheme
Visakhapatnam Zoo Announces Student Art Competition for World Elephant Day
Andhra Pradesh Requests ₹257 Crore to Expand Traditional Medicine Infrastructure
