The Human Rights Forum (HRF) has criticised Visakhapatnam Police for restricting a peaceful campaign by Green Visakha against proposed hyperscale AI data centres. The group had planned to raise concerns over water, power, groundwater, pollution and ecological impact. HRF termed the police action a restriction on peaceful public expression and democratic participation.

The Human Rights Forum has condemned the Visakhapatnam Police for restricting a campaign against proposed hyperscale AI data centres.

Green Visakha had planned a peaceful procession along the Vizag Beach Road to create awareness about the projects.

Police had earlier denied permission for the proposed procession.

Despite this, around 20–25 people gathered near the Bhagat Singh statue to distribute pamphlets and raise public awareness.

HRF said the police objected even to the small gathering and asked participants to disperse. 

The organisation said the campaign was focused on concerns over water and power requirements of large data centres.

Activists have also raised concerns about groundwater pressure, pollution, waste generation and wider ecological impacts.

The debate comes as Andhra Pradesh plans large-scale data-centre investments around Visakhapatnam.

HRF alleged that the restrictions form part of a wider pattern of limiting public discussion around the projects. 

The organisation also referred to earlier detention of Left leaders who attempted to visit residents affected by land acquisition in Tarluwada.

Environmental groups have been seeking greater transparency and public participation in decisions involving the data-centre projects.

The issue has now become a wider debate between Vizag’s ambitions as an AI hub and concerns over environmental and social costs.

HRF has urged authorities to allow peaceful public debate and address the concerns raised by citizens and environmental groups.