Amaravati Bill Passed, Pressure Mounting On Jagan!

The former chief minister of Andhra Pradesh YS Jagan had a different approach towards the capital as he wanted to have three different capitals in the state. But the current government has ensured the Amaravati is the only capital of the state.

IT and Education Minister Nara Lokesh has demanded that Jagan Mohan Reddy clearly spell out his stand on Amaravati as the only capital of Andhra Pradesh.

Speaking during the Assembly discussions, Lokesh questioned why the former Chief Minister and chief of the YSR Congress Party had not participated in the debate when the House was taking up a resolution related to Amaravati’s status.

He said the people, especially the farmers who gave their lands for the capital city, deserve clarity from Jagan on whether he supports Amaravati as the sole capital or still believes in the earlier three capitals proposal.

Lokesh pointed out that the government was trying to secure legal and political protection for Amaravati so that its status cannot be changed in the future. He added that avoiding the discussion only raises more doubts about YSRCP’s intentions.

The remarks triggered sharp reactions from the opposition benches, with YSRCP members accusing the ruling side of politicising the issue instead of following proper legislative procedures.

The debate once again brought the long running Amaravati capital issue back to the centre of Andhra Pradesh politics, with both sides trying to claim they are safeguarding the interests of the farmers and the future of the state.