The political climate intensified on Sunday as Ministers were involved in a heated exchange with opposition leaders. The war of words focused on claims of development, job creation, and leadership, further raising tensions ahead of the 2024 elections.
During a press conference in Palasa, Minister Sidiri Appalaraju directly challenged opposition leader Lokesh to substantiate claims made by former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu regarding specific achievements, particularly job creation figures for teachers. Appalaraju questioned Lokesh’s understanding of ongoing projects like Bhogapuram Airport and asserted Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s superior commitment to generating government employment opportunities.
ppalaraju contrasted the current administration’s record with the previous one, claiming the YSRCP government has facilitated significantly more job creation than the TDP regime. He dismissed attempts by the opposition to sow doubt among the public and urged them to present concrete plans that match the current government’s efforts. Additionally, Appalaraju raised concerns about the TDP’s track record in Uttarandhra, suggesting Lokesh’s actions were driven by personal motives rather than genuine development aspirations.
Meanwhile, Revenue Minister Dharmana Prasada Rao inaugurated new facilities in Sri Puram and utilised the platform to urge opposition leaders to acknowledge the state’s evident development. He expressed scepticism towards critics who fail to recognise the improvements underway and questioned Chandrababu Naidu’s dedication to Andhra Pradesh, highlighting his residence outside the state.
Rao defended the current government’s achievements, citing advancements in education, infrastructure projects, and dispute resolution with neighbouring states. He challenged the opposition to present evidence of their own accomplishments during their tenure and emphasized Chief Minister Jagan’s dedication to various welfare programs, healthcare initiatives, and agricultural support measures. Rao reiterated the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare and overall community development under the leadership of Chief Minister Jagan, further adding to the charged political atmosphere in Andhra Pradesh.