Botsa slams TDP for price hike

Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council and MLC Botsa Satyanarayana has criticised the TDP coalition government for its widespread failures within just four months, highlighting the ineffective implementation of the free sand supply policy, rising prices of essential commodities, and negligence in addressing key issues like the proposed privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.
Speaking to media persons in Visakhapatnam on Monday, Botsa criticised the government’s claim of providing free sand, stating that the current prices are higher than during the previous government’s term, severely affecting the construction industry and 25 sectors dependent on it. He demanded the proper implementation of the free sand policy by October 15, 2024.
The former minister also addressed the sharp rise in the cost of essential commodities, citing pulses priced at Rs 160 per kilogram and rice at Rs 65 per kilogram. He called for the immediate establishment of counters in Rythu Bazaars to provide essential goods at affordable prices.
Regarding the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Botsa urged coalition leaders Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan to oppose the privatisation efforts, stressing that the plant holds immense sentimental value for the people. He also raised concerns about the delay in establishing a railway zone in Visakhapatnam and questioned the incomplete investigation into the drug seizure at the port, calling for transparency and decisive action.
Meanwhile, in a separate press conference in Proddatur, former MLA and YSRCP Official Spokesperson Rachamallu Prasad Reddy launched a strong critique against the coalition government, citing widespread failures within four months. He stated that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has not fulfilled any election promises except for increasing pensions, which are also being reduced, with 1.5 lakh pensions already cancelled. Reddy condemned Naidu for engaging in diversionary politics and highlighted the government’s failure to protect women and children, its mishandling of flood relief efforts in Vijayawada, and corruption in managing donations. He warned that until the promises are fulfilled, his party would continue to raise these issues.