Former minister Gudivada Amarnath accused Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu of appropriating credit for development projects initiated by former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Speaking at a press conference in Visakhapatnam, Amarnath criticized Naidu for focusing primarily on developing the capital region during his previous tenure, neglecting other areas of the state.
Amarnath specifically pointed out that significant progress was made on projects like the Bhogapuram Airport during the YSRC regime. He highlighted that while the previous TDP government had acquired only 377 acres of land out of the total 2,200 acres required for the project, the YSRC government managed to acquire 1,900 acres by consulting with local farmers, thereby expediting the project. He mentioned that 35% of the airport project was completed during Jagan Mohan Reddy's tenure.
Additionally, Amarnath emphasized other developmental initiatives undertaken by the previous regime, such as the Moolapet port, fishing harbors, and medical colleges. He welcomed the establishment of new airports in Anantapur, Moolapet, and other locations but expressed skepticism about their completion within the next five years.
The former minister criticized Naidu for failing to fulfill his promise of making Visakhapatnam the financial capital of the state, contrasting it with the proactive approach of the YSRC regime. He also accused the NDA government of prematurely taking credit for projects like the BPCL petrochemical complex and oil refinery before their actual realization.
Amarnath's statements underscored the ongoing political discourse surrounding development initiatives in Andhra Pradesh, highlighting contrasting approaches between different administrations.