GVMC Approves GITAM University Land Regularization Amidst Opposition Outcry

• GVMC Council approved regularization of Rs 5,000 crore worth of land for GITAM University without discussion, sparking severe criticism.
• Opposition members from YSRCP, CPM, and CPI protested, but Mayor Pilla Srinivasa Rao ignored their objections and approved all 15 agenda items.
• Media was barred from entering the Council Hall despite official passes, with reporters forcibly removed and doors locked, raising concerns about press freedom.
• A scuffle broke out between ruling and opposition corporators, injuring YSRCP corporator Palla Lakshmana Rao, yet the session continued without pause.
• The opposition labeled the decision an 'indelible stain on democracy' and warned that 'Operation GITAM' will be a dark chapter in Visakhapatnam's political history.

Why It Matters: GVMC controversially approved GITAM University's land regularization without debate, suppressing opposition and media.