In a scathing critique of the current government in Andhra Pradesh, former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has raised serious concerns about the state of governance under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Addressing his party cadre in Bhimavaram, Reddy questioned whether any significant benefits have reached the people in the nearly two years since Naidu returned to power. He accused the ruling party of deceiving various groups through unfulfilled election promises and described the current regime as one that operates under a “jungle raj.”
Reddy emphasized that during his tenure, he ensured that every promise made to the people was kept, even amidst challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. He stated, “In the past two years, has there been even one good thing for the people under Chandrababu Naidu’s leadership? All the schemes we implemented have been dismantled since his return.” He criticized the Naidu administration for its failure to provide essential services and for rampant corruption that he claims has become the norm.
Highlighting issues of public safety and women’s rights, Reddy expressed outrage over recent incidents of harassment and violence against women linked to ruling party politicians. He cited the alarming case of a government employee in Rayalaseema who attempted suicide after facing threats from local MLA Koonaravikumar. He also mentioned the alleged rape of a woman by another MLA, which he claimed was subsequently covered up with the misuse of power.
Reddy painted a grim picture of lawlessness in the state, suggesting that the political environment has deteriorated to the point of being reminiscent of a jungle. He pointed to shocking videos circulating on social media that depict public disorder and illicit activities, including illegal cockfighting events allegedly sanctioned by government officials. “We are witnessing a breakdown of social order,” he stated, expressing disbelief at the level of corruption and impunity displayed by those in power.
Moreover, Reddy accused the Naidu administration of failing to manage resources effectively, leading to a decline in revenue for the government. He claimed that the previous government generated substantial income from sand mining, which has now plummeted due to mismanagement. “Revenue that should come to the government has vanished, while the pockets of Chandrababu’s associates are being lined,” he alleged.
In a broader context, Reddy criticized the state’s education and healthcare systems, asserting that many families are forced to sell their properties to afford their children’s education. He lamented the delays in fee reimbursements that have caused students to drop out of school and highlighted the deterioration of public health services, which he claimed have rendered programs like Aarogyasri ineffective.
As the political landscape heats up ahead of the upcoming elections, Reddy has vowed to continue engaging with the public across all 150 constituencies in a bid to rally support against the current administration. He aims to ensure that party workers have a prominent role in the campaign, emphasizing their importance in driving positive change for the people of Andhra Pradesh. “This time, the people will kick out the Chandrababu government like a football,” he said, signaling a fierce electoral battle ahead.
