Did YSR Congress Accuse Chandrababu Naidu of 'Betraying' Rayalaseema?
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Synopsis
In a dramatic exchange between political leaders, the YSR Congress Party has accused N. Chandrababu Naidu of betraying Rayalaseema's interests following claims by Telangana's CM Revanth Reddy. The fallout includes allegations of collusion and the jeopardization of critical irrigation projects, raising questions about political accountability and the region's future.
Key Takeaways
- Chandrababu Naidu faces accusations of political betrayal.
- Allegations of collusion with Telangana's CM.
- The Rayalaseema lift irrigation project is critical for the region.
- Leaders demand accountability and immediate action.
- Public agitation planned if project revival is delayed.
Amaravati, Jan 4 (NationPress) Following claims by Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy that he pressured Andhra Pradesh's N. Chandrababu Naidu into halting the Rayalaseema lift irrigation project, the YSR Congress Party has leveled accusations against Naidu for ‘betraying’ Rayalaseema for his own personal and political interests.
The Opposition leaders allege that Naidu collaborated with Revanth Reddy to obstruct the crucial Rayalaseema project.
Key figures from the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), including Sake Sailajanath and former MLAs V. Vishweshwar Reddy and SV Mohan Reddy, expressed strong disapproval of Naidu’s supposed ‘betrayal’ of Rayalaseema.
In response to remarks made by Revanth Reddy in the Telangana Assembly, YSRCP leaders argued that Naidu’s ‘Rayalaseema mask’ has completely fallen apart.
They emphasized that Revanth Reddy’s public statements, along with his willingness for an all-party inquiry, revealed an improper alliance that resulted in halting a project essential for the drinking water and irrigation needs of Rayalaseema.
Describing the decision as a ‘death warrant’ for the region, Sailajanath and Vishweshwar Reddy demanded that Naidu clarify what personal motivations led him to jeopardize the future of this drought-stricken area. They questioned why Naidu remained silent regarding Telangana’s upstream projects and the repeated diversions from Srisailam, and why Andhra Pradesh failed to assert its rights before legal bodies.
They noted that under the administration of former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project was initiated with an investment of around Rs 3,850 crore to optimally use allocated water through the Pothireddypadu Head Regulator, primarily for drinking purposes. Despite facing initial challenges from environmental agencies, the project was pursued in the public interest but was subsequently abandoned by the coalition government, even as Telangana advanced with projects such as Palamuru-Rangareddy and Dindi despite incurring penalties.
They cautioned that the recent height increase of the Almatti dam by Karnataka, coupled with Andhra Pradesh’s inaction, would severely impact projects like Handri-Neeva and Galeru-Nagari, plunging Rayalaseema further into crisis.
They accused Naidu of favoring Amaravati commissions over vital drought-relief initiatives like the Gundrevula reservoir and canal expansions. They pointed out that nearly 101 TMC of water allocated to Rayalaseema for decades seldom reaches the area due to political deals.
YSRCP leaders urged TDP ministers, MPs, and MLAs from Rayalaseema to either speak out or resign, warning that the public would not forgive those who remained passive while the region’s future was jeopardized. They asserted that YSRCP would not tolerate any actions detrimental to Rayalaseema and announced plans for a mass public agitation alongside farmers and citizens if the Lift Irrigation Project is not revived promptly.
SV Mohan Reddy firmly stated that Revanth Reddy’s remarks in the Telangana Assembly had definitively revealed Naidu’s betrayal of Rayalaseema.
He claimed that by ceasing the Lift Irrigation Project, Naidu had compromised the future of the people of Rayalaseema, committing an irreparable betrayal of future generations. Mohan Reddy criticized Naidu for his silence on the region’s needs despite his political influence at the national level, questioning why special funding has not been obtained for the area.
He also challenged Rayalaseema ministers and leaders, asking whether their positions matter more to them than safeguarding the basic rights and futures of their constituents.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the complexity of regional politics in India. The accusations traded between YSR Congress and TDP highlight not only the contentious nature of political rivalries but also the profound impact these conflicts have on essential resources for vulnerable regions like Rayalaseema. The situation demands careful monitoring due to the potential consequences for local communities.
NationPress
06/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rayalaseema lift irrigation project?
The Rayalaseema lift irrigation project aims to utilize allocated water resources for drinking and irrigation needs in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh.
Why did the YSR Congress Party accuse Naidu?
The YSR Congress Party accused Naidu of halting the project for personal and political gain, claiming he colluded with Telangana's CM to obstruct essential resources for Rayalaseema.
What are the implications of halting the project?
Halting the project could exacerbate water scarcity and agricultural distress in Rayalaseema, affecting the livelihoods of many residents.
Who were the key figures in this dispute?
Key figures include YSR Congress leaders Sake Sailajanath, V. Vishweshwar Reddy, and SV Mohan Reddy, who have publicly condemned Naidu's actions.
What actions are being called for by the YSR Congress Party?
The YSR Congress Party is demanding immediate revival of the Lift Irrigation Project and threatens mass public agitation if their demands are not met.
