Rajnath vows to tackle crime and corruption in AP

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has articulated a bold vision for the future of Andhra Pradesh, asserting that only a coalition government comprising the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and Jana Sena could effectively combat the scourge of drug and land mafias plaguing the region. Addressing an intellectual gathering here on Wednesday, Singh minced no words in condemning the alleged rampant corruption under the YSRCP-led government in Andhra Pradesh. He underscored the urgent need to curb the influence of the drug and land mafias, which he claimed have thrived under the current administration.
Singh asserted that his coalition possessed comprehensive intelligence on the operations of these mafias, particularly in Visakhapatnam. He criticised the staggering debt burden of Rs 13.5 lakh crore borne by the Andhra Pradesh government, attributing it to reckless fiscal policies and mismanagement. Singh spared no criticism for the incumbent government’s handling of crucial projects, such as the Polavaram project, citing delays and inefficiencies. He pledged that a BJP-TDP-JSP alliance would prioritise development initiatives and restore law and order in the State. Singh emphasised the significance of the Visakhapatnam Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC), highlighting its potential to bolster the region’s industrial landscape with over $100 billion in future investments. However, he criticised the State government’s role, alleging a lack of effective implementation of Centrally-funded infrastructure projects across various sectors.
Meanwhile, alliance candidate M Sribharat implored the Central government for the merger of RINL-Visakhapatnam Steel Plant with Steel Authority of India (SAIL), envisioning enhanced profitability and accelerated production targets. Sribharat lamented the erosion of democracy and the lack of employment opportunities for the youth under the current regime, warning of a chilling effect on investment. He expressed optimism that a coalition government would herald a new era of prosperity for Andhra Pradesh.