Growing resentment is being expressed across Rayalaseema over what many residents describe as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) government’s continued neglect of the region’s development. Critics argue that the TDP is now taking credit for projects that were initiated during the tenure of former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, including the Kadapa Steel Plant. Local residents and intellectuals have also questioned Chandrababu Naidu’s development record, alleging that several opportunities meant for Rayalaseema were either delayed or diverted during his previous administrations.
Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation and Pothireddypadu Controversy
Residents point out that the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Scheme, launched during the Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy government to address the region’s drinking and irrigation water needs, was halted after the TDP returned to power. Allegations have also surfaced that the project was stopped following an understanding with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy.
Critics further recall that TDP leaders had earlier opposed increasing the capacity of the Pothireddypadu Head Regulator, a project considered vital for Rayalaseema’s water requirements. Former minister Devineni Uma had even led protests at Prakasam Barrage, warning against diverting water to Rayalaseema a statement that many in the region say they have not forgotten.
Allegations of Shifting Key Institutions Away from Rayalaseema
Several decisions involving the relocation of institutions have also come under criticism. According to opponents of the government:
- The AIIMS hospital that was expected to benefit Rayalaseema under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act was established near Amaravati at Mangalagiri, allegedly violating the spirit of the Sri Bagh Pact.
- The ₹250-crore MSME Technology Centre proposed for Kopparthi in Kadapa district was shifted to Amaravati through Government Order (GO) No. 56.
- The establishment of the High Court at Kurnool was allegedly prevented, while the proposed Law University was also shifted to Amaravati.
- The government has also faced criticism over its reported decision to relocate the headquarters of Andhra Pragathi Grameena Bank from Kadapa to Amaravati despite the bank’s strong performance from its existing location.
Pulivendula Medical College Seat Dispute
Another issue drawing criticism is the government’s handling of Pulivendula Government Medical College. Although the National Medical Commission (NMC) reportedly approved 50 MBBS seats, the state government allegedly informed the NMC that adequate infrastructure was unavailable and declined to provide an undertaking to complete the required facilities. Critics argue that this decision deprived students from Rayalaseema of valuable medical education opportunities.
Claims of Taking Credit for Jagan-Era Projects
Critics also allege that the TDP government is attempting to claim credit for projects initiated during the previous YSRCP government. They cite the Kadapa Steel Plant and the country’s largest private gold mining project at Jonnagiri in Kurnool district as examples of initiatives that began under the Jagan administration but are now being showcased as achievements of the present government.
In addition, the proposed relocation of institutions such as the Lokayukta and the Human Rights Commission to Amaravati has further intensified concerns among Rayalaseema residents. Many in the region argue that these decisions reflect a continued pattern of sidelining Rayalaseema’s interests, leading to growing dissatisfaction with the government’s approach toward the region’s development.
