New Delhi, April 2 (NationPress) On Thursday, Parliament officially approved the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, establishing Amaravati as the exclusive and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh. The Rajya Sabha passed the legislation via a voice vote, just a day after it was approved by the Lok Sabha.

This new law modifies the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, providing formal recognition to Amaravati as the only capital of the state, effective from June 2, 2024. This decision aims to resolve years of turmoil and political indecision surrounding the capital, which emerged following the bifurcation of the former united Andhra Pradesh in 2014. It effectively eliminates any future plans to change the status of the capital or return to the previous three-capital setup.

Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan extended his congratulations to the citizens of Andhra Pradesh, signifying this development as a crucial step towards achieving long-desired administrative clarity, thus enabling focused growth and effective governance in the new capital city.

During the Rajya Sabha discussions, Yerram Venkata Subba Reddy from the YSR Congress Party expressed his opposition to the bill, claiming it does not sufficiently address the challenges faced by numerous farmers who contributed their land for Amaravati but still await fair compensation.

He raised concerns regarding the definition of 'capital' and the foundational rationale for declaring Amaravati as the permanent capital.

In response, Union Minister of Civil Aviation Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu robustly defended the bill, highlighting the inconsistent positions various parties have taken on the capital issue over the years.

“When those in leadership make reckless remarks, what does that mean for the future of the state?” he questioned.

Naidu pointed out the past confusion surrounding the capital's location: “We couldn’t even clarify where the state capital was if someone asked.” He accused the prior administration of negligence in this regard and affirmed that the NDA government fully endorses the reconstruction of Amaravati.

He paid tribute to the “dedication and sacrifices of farmers and women of Andhra Pradesh” who have steadfastly advocated for a single, functional capital.

The enactment of this bill is viewed as a significant political and developmental triumph for the TDP-led NDA government in Andhra Pradesh. Once it receives the President's approval, it will conclusively settle the capital debate and enable extensive infrastructure projects in Amaravati.