YSRCP criticises Andhra Pradesh government’s industrial policy, governance
YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader and former Minister Gudivada Amarnath on Saturday accused the Andhra Pradesh government of failing to promote industrial development, attract investments, and create employment opportunities.
Addressing a press conference, Mr. Amarnath alleged that the coalition government had prioritised publicity over governance during its 25 months in office. He claimed that Andhra Pradesh’s Ease of Doing Business ranking had fallen from first to eighth position, attributing the decline to the government’s failure to provide a conducive environment for industries and investors. Referring to a recent NITI Aayog report, he said the State had consistently secured the top rank under the previous YSRCP government despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
He further alleged that the government had failed to attract any major fresh investments and was instead inaugurating or relaunching projects initiated during the previous YSRCP regime. He also claimed that the industrial incentives promised by the government had not been implemented.
Mr. Amarnath alleged that government land in Visakhapatnam and Amaravati was being allotted to private entities at concessional rates to benefit those associated with the ruling establishment rather than to promote industrial growth and employment.
Referring to Amar Raja Batteries’ expansion in Telangana, he said the company’s decision to expand operations outside Andhra Pradesh was a commercial one and rejected criticism directed at the previous YSRCP government over the issue.
The former Minister also alleged that sectors such as education, healthcare, ports, roads, and fishing harbours were witnessing increased private participation. He described the Amaravati capital project as a large-scale real estate venture.
Expressing concern over the security arrangements during YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy’s recent visit to Bhimavaram, Mr. Amarnath alleged that the former Chief Minister had not been provided adequate security despite being entitled to Z Plus protection.
Alleging a deterioration in the law and order situation, he said a stable environment was essential for attracting investments. He urged the government to focus on fulfilling its electoral promises and addressing public grievances.
There was no immediate response from the State government to the allegations.