YSR Congress party president and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has reaffirmed his stance regarding the state capital, asserting that Amaravati is unfit to serve in this capacity. In a recent statement, Reddy clarified that his administration will not consider Amaravati as the permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh, a position he has upheld since taking office.
This declaration comes amid ongoing debates surrounding the future of the state’s capital, which was initially envisioned as a world-class city. Development in Amaravati has faced significant delays and challenges, leading Reddy to label it unsuitable for the administrative center of Andhra Pradesh. The former chief minister emphasized that the resources and infrastructure necessary to support a capital city are lacking, hindering its growth potential.
Reddy’s position arises from a broader vision for the state that aims to ensure equitable development across various regions. He pointed out that focusing resources on Amaravati alone would neglect other areas that also require attention. “We must embrace a development strategy that benefits the entire state rather than concentrating all our efforts in one location,” he stated during a recent press briefing.
Critics of Reddy’s statement have expressed concerns that his administration is abandoning the promise made to the people of Amaravati, who had invested time and money into the area in anticipation of its growth. Supporters, however, argue that the decision is necessary for the long-term welfare of the state, given the current economic climate and infrastructure challenges.
The response from residents of Amaravati has been mixed. Some remain hopeful that the city will eventually reach its potential, while others fear that the lack of political support could lead to stagnation. Local business leaders have voiced their concerns about the impact on investment and development, calling for clarity on the government’s future plans.
In backing his long-held views, Reddy reiterated that the focus should shift beyond Amaravati. “Our aim is to build a balanced and prosperous Andhra Pradesh, and we must be willing to think outside the box to achieve this goal,” he said. As discussions continue, the political landscape remains divided between leaders who favor a vibrant Amaravati and those advocating for a more decentralized approach to governance.
The topic of Andhra Pradesh’s capital city is expected to remain a significant issue in the forthcoming political discourse. With the upcoming elections on the horizon, party leaders will likely use this debate to galvanize their support bases, promising to address the various concerns of the electorate. Observers will be watching closely to see how the situation unfolds and what implications it will have for the state’s development and political dynamics.
