'BJP Leaders Read Script Given By TDP': Andhra Minister On Amit Shah's 'Corrupt Govt' Remark

Minister Amarnath challenged both the TDP and BJP to join forces in the electoral battle, emphasising that the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) would fight independently.

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Industries and Information Technology, Gudivada Amarnath, hit back at Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday, refuting his allegations of rampant corruption against the Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government in the state. Condemning Shah's claims made during a public meeting in Visakhapatnam, Amarnath stated that those advocating for the sale of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant have no credibility to speak about corruption. The minister said that Amit Shah and BJP President JP Nadda read the script given by the Telugu Desam Party (TDP). He challenged both the TDP and BJP to join forces in the electoral battle, emphasising that the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) would fight independently.

Describing the privatisation of the steel plant as a major scam, Amarnath criticised the fact that it is ridiculous that those who are taking steps to sell the plant are talking about corruption. He expressed disappointment that during Shah's visit to Visakhapatnam, people had hoped for an announcement to halt the privatisation of the steel plant.

He clarified that the YSRCP has never formed an alliance with any party and asserted that they do not need to bow down to any political party. Amarnath stated that the relationship between the YSRCP and the BJP is limited to government-to-government interactions. He emphasised that respect is earned through mutual respect, and the YSRCP prioritises the state's interests.

Addressing Shah and Nadda, he stated that criticising Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy would not elevate their stature. He advised the BJP leaders to open their eyes and witness the ongoing development in the state.

In response to Shah's claims about providing funds to the state, Amarnath questioned whether the state had any entitlement to the funds received from the central government. He also alleged that the Centre's contribution to the monthly pension of Rs. 2,750 for 65 lakh beneficiaries under various social security schemes was a mere Rs. 200.

Amarnath reminded Shah that the establishment of IIT and IIM were the rights of Andhra Pradesh under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. He further inquired about the contributions made by the Centre to the state. The state minister also highlighted that Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy disbursed Rs. 2.16 lakh crore to the public through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) programmes.