SC categorisation: Mala Mahanadu leader on fast

Rajahmundry, May 25 (UNI) Andhra Pradesh Mala Mahanadu President Karem Sivaji today commenced his indefinite hunger strike, amidst high drama, demanding the government not to categorise the Scheduled Castes as sought by certain sections.

As Mr Sivaji had announced that he would fast near Ambedkar statue near Gokavaram bus stand here, heavy police force was deployed there and people were not allowed to gather near the spot.

Besides, Mala Mahanadu activists were taken into custody. Sensing trouble, Mr Sivaji changed the venue to one of his relative's house at Boggala Dibba area by locking himself in with his followers.

Some women were ready with kerosene to set themselves ablaze if police tried to break their leader's protest hunger strike.

Speaking to newspersons, Mr Sivaji said he was ready to sacrifice his life, but wanted the Supreme Court order to be honoured. ''I wanted to commence the fast peacefully, but police did not give permission. The agitation will continue till our demands are met.'' Taking a dig at the Madiga Reservation Poratta Samithi agitation demanding categorisation of SCs, he termed it as a mere drama.

Tahsildar K Narasimhamurthy attempted to dissuade Mr Sivaji from carrying on with the stir, but the latter turned down the offer for talks.

UNI