Will YSRCP Continue Its Fight to Save the Vizag Steel Plant?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On October 9, 2023, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy reiterated his commitment to the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) employees, promising unwavering support in their fight against privatisation. With workers intensifying their demands and concerns over their future, the dialogue emphasizes the critical need to safeguard this vital industry.
Key Takeaways
- YSRCP's commitment to the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant remains strong.
- Employees are actively voicing their concerns and demands.
- The fight against privatisation is a central theme.
- Public sentiment is crucial in this ongoing narrative.
- Events surrounding Dr. K. Sudhakar highlight the serious implications for healthcare workers.
Visakhapatnam, Oct 9 (NationPress) Former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and president of the YSR Congress Party, Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, pledged on Thursday to the employees of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) that the protection of the plant remains a top priority for the party.
During his visit to Narsipatnam and Visakhapatnam, he reaffirmed his dedication to safeguarding the VSP after meeting with employees who expressed their apprehensions.
The workers presented a petition highlighting their issues.
According to YSRCP, VSP employees conveyed that, despite promises made during the elections to protect the steel plant, the TDP-led coalition has let them down since assuming power. They implored Y.S. Jagan to lend his support in ensuring the plant's viability.
In a supportive response, Jagan assured them that whether in government or in opposition, his position will remain unchanged: “YSRCP will consistently fight to protect the steel plant.”
He stressed that the party's mission is to “halt privatisation and steadfastly support the workers in their battle.”
The employees also presented three critical demands to the government. They insisted that the Union Cabinet's decision on privatisation be reversed by exerting pressure on the Central Government. They requested that exclusive captive mines be allocated to the Visakha Steel Plant, and that it be merged with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). Furthermore, they called for the reinstatement of all laid-off employees.
The workers made it clear that they will escalate their protests until their demands are met.
Meanwhile, campaign flexis for K. Sudhakar appeared in Narsipatnam during Jagan's visit to launch the party's campaign against the privatisation of medical colleges.
“YSRCP Never again. Those who failed to provide masks and caused Dr. Sudhakar's death are now discussing medical colleges. People, be cautious,” reads the flexi.
The identity of those who set up the flexi remains unclear. Certain Dalit organisations have demanded an apology from Jagan to Sudhakar's family before his visit to Narsipatnam, threatening to disrupt his appearance.
Dr. K. Sudhakar (55) was suspended from Narsipatnam Area Hospital in 2020 for publicly denouncing the YSRCP for inadequate provision of PPE kits, masks, and other protective equipment for healthcare workers involved in COVID treatment. He was reportedly manhandled by police in Visakhapatnam, leading to significant controversy and a High Court order for a CBI investigation.
While receiving treatment at KGH in Visakhapatnam, he was transferred to the Government Hospital of Mental Care for evaluation and treatment of his mental health.
Sudhakar passed away from cardiac arrest in 2021. His family stated that he was distressed over his lack of reinstatement.
Point of View
It is essential to acknowledge the fervent commitment shown by Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy towards the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. The ongoing struggles of the employees reflect broader issues of job security and industrial policy in India. The YSRCP's stance on privatisation resonates with many who fear the loss of vital public assets. This situation warrants careful observation as it unfolds, highlighting the complex interplay between governance and corporate interests.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current status of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant?
The current status of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant is under scrutiny as employees are rallying against potential privatisation, urging the government to take action to protect the facility.
What demands are the workers making?
The workers are demanding that the Union Cabinet's decision on privatisation be reversed, allocation of exclusive captive mines, merger with SAIL, and reinstatement of retrenched employees.
Who is Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy?
Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy is the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh and the president of the YSR Congress Party, known for his focus on public welfare and industrial development.
What happened to Dr. K. Sudhakar?
Dr. K. Sudhakar was a healthcare professional who faced suspension for criticizing the government during the pandemic and later unfortunately passed away due to cardiac arrest, which raised significant concerns about his treatment.
How are the employees planning to escalate their protests?
The employees have stated that they will intensify their agitation until their demands regarding the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant are addressed by the government.
