The controversial 'Rushikonda Palace' has once again sparked heated debate, not just among political circles but also among the public, due to the manner in which it was constructed clandestinely by the previous government, costing crores of rupees. Despite appearing to settle down temporarily, recent reports indicate fresh controversy surrounding the palace.
According to the latest updates, the Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company has issued notices to Rushikonda Palace in Vishakapatnam for unpaid electricity bills dating back to November. The palace, which has two HT power connections, accrued monthly charges of Rs 80,000 and Rs 7,00,000 respectively. From November to May, the total outstanding bill amounted to Rs 54.52 lakhs. Adding the additional Rs 6 lakhs for June, the total pending amount has now reached a substantial Rs 60 lakhs.
Although the palace has not been operational for any specific purpose so far, it has been consuming an average of 2000 units of electricity daily over the past nine months, primarily to illuminate its opulent interiors adorned with numerous lavish chandeliers and lights.
The electricity department has issued a notice demanding clearance of the pending dues within 15 days, yet there has been no official response from the government on this matter.
Previously, a major controversy erupted when local leaders of Vishakapatnam entered the palace and revealed its interior to the media. The YSRCP defended the construction, claiming it was meant to accommodate visiting dignitaries on official business. In contrast, opposition parties like TDP and Janasena criticized Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, alleging that public funds were misused to construct such a luxurious palace, purportedly for his personal residence.