YSRCP accuses NDA of taking credit for Kadapa Steel Plant

Former minister Gudivada Amarnath on Friday accused the NDA government of attempting to take political credit for the Kadapa Steel Plant project, alleging that the groundwork had already been completed during the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government.

Addressing a press conference, Mr. Amarnath said the YSRCP government had completed all major preparatory work, including the allotment of nearly 3,000 acres of land, the sanctioning of two TMC of water, the provision of power connectivity through a high-tension line, connectivity to National Highway-67, and railway access. He said the required Government Order was issued on December 21, 2022.

The former minister alleged that after assuming office in 2024, the NDA government had deliberately stalled the project, bringing the work to a standstill. He claimed the delay had discouraged industrial investment and forced several industries to leave Andhra Pradesh. After allowing the project to remain idle for two years, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu was now laying the foundation stone solely for political mileage, he alleged.

Launching a broader attack on the Chief Minister, Mr. Amarnath alleged that Mr. Naidu had made a habit of claiming credit for every major development, from the establishment of HITEC City in Hyderabad to the spread of mobile technology.

Referring to his appearance before the Commission, Mr. Amarnath said he had appeared as a responsible citizen and maintained that his earlier remarks were political in nature and not directed against women.

He also alleged that the NDA government had failed to fulfil its election promises, attract fresh investments, or provide effective governance despite completing nearly half of its five-year term.