In a recent event held in Guntur, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leaders criticized the coalition government for its lack of welfare initiatives, emphasizing the struggles parents face in paying fees at private schools. They claimed that the Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan is mimicking former minister Ambati Rambabu, especially during the festive season of Sankranti. The remarks came during a competition for traditional Rangoli art organized under the leadership of Ambati Rambabu in the Guntur West constituency.
The Rangoli competition saw participation from various notable figures, including former ministers Ambati Rambabu and RK Roja, as well as YSRCP leaders like Annabathuni Shiva Kumar, Noori Fatima, and Karumuri Venkata Reddy. Winners of the competition were awarded prizes, with Geetanjali clinching the first prize of one lakh rupees. During the event, Ambati Rambabu expressed his thoughts on the political scene, remembering the challenges faced by RK Roja when she first became an MLA, being suspended for a year by Chandrababu Naidu. He praised her resilience and reiterated that despite the coalition government’s attempts to undermine them, they would not be deterred.
Ambati Rambabu also humorously remarked about the festivities, questioning whether his dance during Sankranti would earn him the title of “celebration Rambabu,” and what would happen if Pawan Kalyan joined in. His comments were aimed at highlighting political mimicry and the entertainment aspect of the festive season.
Former minister RK Roja shared her joy in participating in the Sankranti celebrations, emphasizing the importance of the Rangoli competition in the festivities. She noted that when people think of Sankranti, they think of Ambati Rambabu, and vice versa. She recounted past events where Rambabu organized Sankranti celebrations in Sattenerpally, which were met with skepticism from some quarters. Today, however, he is celebrated and recognized for his contributions to the festivities.
Roja criticized the coalition government for failing to deliver welfare programs such as Aarogyasri, Cheyutha, and Raitu Bharosa, which had previously been implemented under YSRCP governance. She asserted that every month under YS Jagan’s administration, a new welfare initiative was launched, ensuring the well-being of the people. She expressed confidence that YSRCP would return to power in the upcoming elections, highlighting the happiness and satisfaction among citizens under Jagan’s rule.
Karumuri Venkata Reddy, a spokesperson for YSRCP, echoed these sentiments, describing Sankranti as a time for tradition, games, and celebrations. He pointed out that while Ambati Rambabu has consistently organized Sankranti festivities, some have disrespected him, including Pawan Kalyan, who he claims is now following in Rambabu’s footsteps. The event served as both a cultural celebration and a platform for political discourse, reiterating the ongoing tensions and rivalries within Andhra Pradesh’s political landscape.