Amarnath criticises CM Naidu’s development claims

Former minister Gudivada Amarnath has accused Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu of hijacking credit for development projects pioneered by the Jagan Mohan Reddy administration. Speaking to the media on Friday, Amarnath lambasted Naidu for forsaking future development discussions and instead, spreading false propaganda against Jagan Mohan Reddy. Amarnath alleged that Naidu is deceiving the public by falsely claiming Jagan’s accomplishments as his own. He criticized Naidu’s tenure from 2014-2019 for concentrating solely on a single region and neglecting the developmental needs of North Andhra.
Amarnath highlighted the rapid progress of the Bhogapuram International Airport project as a testament to Reddy’s leadership. He noted that nearly 1,900 out of the required 2,200 acres for the airport have been acquired under Reddy’s administration, a stark contrast to the 377 acres secured by 2019. Furthermore, 35% of the airport’s construction has been completed, with all necessary permissions obtained and legal hurdles in the National Green Tribunal resolved. Questioning Naidu’s vision, Amarnath pointed out the absence of significant projects like Mulapeta Port, fishing harbours, and medical colleges during Naidu’s term. He expressed scepticism about the newly announced airports in Anantapur, Moolapeta, and other areas, doubting their completion within five years. Amarnath also criticized the lack of progress toward making Visakhapatnam the financial capital, a promise made by Naidu during his first cabinet meeting at Andhra University in 2014.
Amarnath also addressed the recent publicity surrounding the establishment of a BPCL factory. He noted that BPCL is considering other locations and questioned the government’s assurances if the factory were established elsewhere; asserting that Reddy’s government only announces investments once they are secured. Amarnath demanded clarity on the Talliki Vandanam Scheme, part of the Super Six initiatives, amidst rising doubts. He highlighted the successful implementation of the Amma Vodi scheme under Reddy’s government, which has benefited 4.3 million mothers and 8.3 million students.
e emphasized the importance of allowing new governments six months to fulfill their promises, criticizing Naidu for not allowing this period.
Additionally, Amarnath accused the coalition government of misleading the public about free sand distribution, citing charges of Rs 1,400 per tonne. He also criticized the government’s stance on electricity charges, alleging that it implies a trade-off between quality electricity and higher costs. Moreover, he condemned the government’s reversal on distributing pensions through volunteers, a promise made before the elections. Amarnath also accused the coalition government of targeting YCP workers and their properties, attacking a newspaper office, and attempting to intimidate the media. He underscored the need for honest governance and accountability, calling on the government to address the public’s concerns about various schemes and initiatives.