Date: November 14, 2024
Decentralization: Lokesh Criticizes Jagan’s Rs 500 Crore Palace
Lokesh Criticizes Jagan’s Costly Palace, Calls for True Decentralization
In a sharp critique of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, IT Minister N. Lokesh slammed the government’s approach to decentralization. Speaking in the Assembly, Lokesh argued that true decentralization does not mean spending Rs 500 crore on a lavish palace in a single location. Instead, he believes in spreading development across various districts, ensuring balanced growth throughout the state.
Decentralization: More Than Just a Costly Palace
Lokesh highlighted that during the previous TDP government, under N. Chandrababu Naidu, the focus was on establishing one capital while decentralizing development projects. This, he said, allowed the state to attract investments and industries to different regions, creating employment opportunities and driving economic growth.
In contrast, Lokesh criticized the ongoing construction at Rushikonda hill, which is reportedly costing the state heavily. Reports have emerged detailing extravagant expenditures, such as a Rs 36 lakh bathtub, Rs 12 lakh commodes, and chandeliers priced in lakhs. The TDP and Jana Sena Party have raised concerns about this project, questioning its purpose and the heavy investment involved. Lokesh hinted that the palace appears to be built for the personal use of Jagan, rather than for public benefit.
TDP’s Achievements in Decentralized Development
Lokesh elaborated on the TDP’s vision for balanced growth, citing several successful projects during Naidu’s tenure from 2014 to 2019:
- Kia Motors was established in the backward district of Anantapur, generating thousands of jobs.
- Renewable energy projects were launched in Kurnool, boosting green energy production.
- Electronics manufacturing units were set up in Chittoor and Kadapa districts, creating employment.
- A wind turbine manufacturing plant was sanctioned in Nellore, supporting the state’s renewable energy sector.
- Aquaculture was heavily promoted in the Godavari districts, boosting the local economy.
These projects, according to Lokesh, are examples of true decentralization that benefit the people of Andhra Pradesh.
North Andhra: A Model for Regional Growth
Lokesh emphasized that the TDP government focused on transforming the backward regions of North Andhra by promoting sectors like IT, medical devices manufacturing, and pharmaceutical units. This helped stimulate growth in previously neglected areas, ensuring that development was not confined to a single location.
The TDP also facilitated the allocation of Central government-sponsored educational institutions across various districts, ensuring equal access to quality education. According to Lokesh, decentralization is not about building a palace but rather distributing wealth and resources to foster employment across the state.
The Vision of Chandrababu Naidu for Andhra Pradesh
Lokesh concluded his speech by reaffirming that with Chandrababu Naidu’s visionary leadership, Andhra Pradesh can achieve sustainable growth and a prosperous future. The TDP’s commitment to spreading development and wealth distribution sets a clear contrast to the current administration’s approach.
As Andhra Pradesh looks ahead, Lokesh believes that a focus on decentralized development will help the state achieve its full potential and bring prosperity to all its districts.