YSR Congress Party Leader Slams Chandrababu Naidu Government Over Amaravati
Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy (YSR) Congress Party Lok Sabha floor leader P.V. Midhun Reddy has launched a scathing attack on the Chandrababu Naidu government, alleging that Amaravati has been turned into a massive real estate scam driven by benamis and backdoor dealings.
Allegations of Insider Trading and Corruption
- Midhun Reddy alleged that insider trading took place even before the capital was officially announced, with thousands of acres being purchased from poor farmers at throwaway prices by those with prior information.
- He also pointed out the irrational scale of land acquisition, with Amaravati expanded to nearly 1 lakh acres, burdening farmers unnecessarily.
Financial Irregularities and Misuse of Public Funds
- Midhun Reddy highlighted financial irregularities, saying that while construction costs in cities like Delhi are around Rs. 4,000 per square foot, the Andhra Pradesh government is claiming over Rs. 12,000 per square foot in Amaravati.
- He noted that tenders worth Rs. 55,000 crore have already been floated, indicating large-scale misuse of public funds.
Fighting for Farmers' Rights
Midhun Reddy also criticised the government for betraying farmers who gave 34,000 acres under land pooling in 2015 with promises of developed plots, education, and housing benefits, none of which have been fulfilled even after seven years of Chandrababu governance.
YSRCP's Stance on Amaravati and Capital Project
Midhun Reddy strongly opposed the amendment bill, stating that it legitimises injustice to farmers and facilitates corruption, while reiterating that YSRCP is not against Amaravati but firmly against the exploitation and misuse of public resources in its name.
Concerns Over National Commitments and Economic Stress
- He pointed out that Special Category Status has been abandoned and that restrictions on the Polavaram project could lead to massive financial losses to the state, further compounding economic stress.
- He also reaffirmed the party's stance on decentralisation of development, citing global examples of multiple-capital models.
Walkout by YSRCP MPs
Following his address, all YSRCP MPs staged a walkout from the Lok Sabha in protest against the bill, even as ruling party members attempted to disrupt his speech.