Date: August 22, 2024

YCP Three Capitals Proposal: An Unwavering Stand Amid Criticism

The controversial three-capitals plan introduced by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s government in 2019 has been a subject of intense debate in Andhra Pradesh. Despite significant backlash and court rulings, YCP continues to stand by its plan for Visakhapatnam to serve as the executive capital.

The Amaravati Dilemma

When Jagan Mohan Reddy took office in 2019, Amaravati was in the early stages of becoming a world-class capital under the leadership of N. Chandrababu Naidu. However, Jagan’s administration introduced the concept of three capitals: Amaravati as the legislative capital, Visakhapatnam as the executive capital, and Kurnool as the judicial capital. This sparked protests and resistance from various sectors, including the local population of Amaravati, political rivals, and even the courts.

Despite these efforts, the courts thwarted Jagan’s plans to shift the capital to Visakhapatnam, and the three-capitals proposal suffered a severe blow when YSR Congress faced a heavy defeat in Uttarandhra, where Visakhapatnam is located. Even political analysts believed that the party would reconsider its stance following its losses.

Resistance from the Public and Central Government’s Stance

In addition to the court’s rulings, the people of Andhra Pradesh, especially in Vizag, stood firmly against the three-capitals idea. This resistance was fueled further by the central government’s commitment to developing Amaravati as the sole capital of the state. Furthermore, N. Chandrababu Naidu’s ambitious plans for Amaravati made it clear that developing a singular, world-class capital would be the most logical step forward.

Yet, despite the setbacks and political damage caused, YCP leaders, notably MLC Botsa Satyanarayana, continue to express support for the three-capitals approach. Satyanarayana recently reiterated the party’s commitment to making Visakhapatnam the executive capital, signaling that the idea remains alive within the party ranks.

A Political Gamble That Might Backfire

The insistence on the three-capitals policy, despite electoral losses and public discontent, reflects YCP determination to push forward its decentralization agenda. However, critics argue that this stubbornness may continue to harm the party’s prospects in future elections. With the central government backing Amaravati and popular sentiment favoring a single capital, YSRCP’s commitment to its initial plan could lead to further political fallout.

Conclusion

It remains to be seen whether YSRCP will adapt its policies in light of growing opposition and political losses. The party may still review and reassess its decision, as Botsa Satyanarayana hinted, but for now, the three-capitals proposal remains on the table. The coming months will reveal whether this political gamble will pay off or lead to further challenges for the ruling party in Andhra Pradesh.