Why Did Andhra Pradesh Rename YSR District to YSR Kadapa District?
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Synopsis
The TDP-led NDA government has officially restored the name YSR Kadapa district, honoring the area's historical significance and addressing public demand. This change reflects ongoing political dynamics in Andhra Pradesh, as the region's rich heritage is acknowledged.
Key Takeaways
- YSR district is now officially called YSR Kadapa district.
- The name change reflects local historical significance.
- Public demand played a crucial role in this decision.
- The region is a political stronghold for the YSR family.
- This marks a notable shift in Andhra Pradesh's political landscape.
Amaravati, May 27 (NationPress) The NDA government in Andhra Pradesh, led by TDP, has officially renamed the YSR district back to YSR Kadapa district, reversing the earlier decision made by the YSR Congress Party.
On Monday, the state government issued a notification reinstating the name Kadapa.
In March, the state Cabinet reached a consensus to return the name YSR Kadapa district.
The previous administration, under the leadership of Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, had changed the name to YSR district.
Historically, the district, located in the Rayalaseema region, was initially called Kadapa. In 2012, during the tenure of the Congress government in the united Andhra Pradesh, it was renamed YSR Kadapa to honor former chief minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy.
Commonly referred to as YSR, the Congress leader tragically passed away in a helicopter crash in September 2009, shortly after beginning his second term as chief minister.
Kadapa has been recognized as the political stronghold and home district of the YSR family.
When creating new districts and renaming others after notable figures, YSR’s son, Jagan Mohan Reddy, opted to rename YSR Kadapa district to just YSR district.
Community organizations, human rights advocates, and intellectuals from the district expressed their concerns about the removal of Kadapa from the district's title.
Various groups have advocated for the restoration of the name Kadapa. Following its election, the TDP-led coalition government opted to revert to YSR Kadapa.
Congress leader N. Tulasi Reddy also urged the NDA government to reinstate the name to YSR Kadapa district.
He noted that the Kadapa district was established in 1808, with a village named Devuni Kadapa believed to be the gateway to Tirumala, home to Lord Venkateswara, leading to its naming.
Interestingly, the announcement to change the name back to YSR Kadapa was made just a day before TDP's three-day Mahanadu, an annual gathering in Kadapa.
This marks the inaugural occasion for TDP to hold its conclave in Kadapa, a recognized stronghold of the YSR family.
On a related note, YSR’s daughter and state Congress president Y. S. Sharmila expressed that although the change in the district's name is personally upsetting for her, the Congress party appreciates the coalition government's decision to respect the history and traditions of Kadapa district.
Sharmila urged Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu that if there is a political motive behind this change, he should also consider renaming NTR district back to NTR Vijayawada district.
NTR, or Nandamuri Taraka Rama Rao, was the founder of TDP and a former chief minister.
Point of View
The renaming of YSR district to YSR Kadapa district underscores the intricate relationship between regional identity and political leadership in Andhra Pradesh. This decision reflects a broader trend of political parties reasserting historical narratives, which can impact local sentiments and governance. It is crucial that such changes consider the voices of the community while honoring historical legacies.
NationPress
14/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the name change from YSR to YSR Kadapa?
The name change was prompted by public demand and the desire of the TDP-led government to restore historical significance to the region.
Who was Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy?
Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy was a prominent Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, who served until his untimely death in 2009.
What are the historical roots of the name Kadapa?
Kadapa, originally named in 1808, is believed to derive its name from a village called Devuni Kadapa, which was considered the gateway to Tirumala.
How did the public react to the name change?
The public response included strong objections from community organizations and demands for the restoration of the name Kadapa.
What significance does Kadapa hold in politics?
Kadapa is a political stronghold for the YSR family and has significant historical and cultural importance in the region.
