Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy has sharply criticized his successor, current Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, for planning an expansive new government complex that will cover over 53 lakh square feet.
In a scathing attack, Jagan Mohan Reddy pointed out the stark contrast between the proposed scale of the new secretariat and assembly buildings and the government’s earlier plans. “Just a few years ago, the estimated size of the new complex was only around 6 lakh square feet,” Reddy stated. “But now, Mr. Naidu wants to build a complex that is almost 10 times larger.”
Reddy accused the current administration of excessive spending and misplaced priorities, arguing that the money would be better utilized for the welfare of the state’s citizens. “Andhra Pradesh is still recovering from the divisive politics and financial troubles of the past,” he said. “Our people are struggling with issues like unemployment, farmer distress, and lack of basic infrastructure. But instead of addressing these pressing needs, the government is spending astronomical sums on an unnecessary vanity project.”
The former Chief Minister also raised concerns about the environmental impact of such a large-scale construction project. “Demolishing existing buildings and clearing acres of land will have a severe effect on the urban ecology of Amaravati,” Reddy warned. “The government should be focusing on sustainable development, not massive concrete structures that will only benefit a few privileged bureaucrats and politicians.”
Reddy’s sharp criticism of the Naidu administration’s spending habits and development plans is the latest episode in the ongoing political rivalry between the two leaders. As Andhra Pradesh prepares for the upcoming state elections, the debate over the new secretariat complex is likely to become a key campaign issue, with both sides accusing the other of fiscal irresponsibility and neglect of the common people’s welfare.
