Chandrababu Naidu releases white paper on AP's economy, ex-CM hits back

New Delhi: Andhra Pradesh's political climate is intensifying as Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu continues his critiques of his predecessor, Jagan Mohan Reddy. Naidu has released a series of white papers alleging that Reddy’s five-year rule devastated the state's economy, increasing debt from Rs 3.75 lakh crore in 2019 to Rs 9.74 lakh crore in 2024.

He claims mismanagement led to losses totaling Rs 7 lakh crore, highlighting issues like illegal sand mining, decline in agricultural growth, and cancellation of major projects such as Amaravati city and the Polavaram project, TOI reported.

Naidu has accused the previous YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government of fostering a drug menace, referring to Reddy as comparable to Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The chief minister also pointed to significant losses due to changes in liquor policy and inefficient governance, which he claims cost the state Rs 1.29 lakh crore in the power sector alone. To address these concerns, Naidu's government has published seven white papers to inform citizens about the alleged mismanagement under Reddy's administration.

In response, Jagan Mohan Reddy has accused Naidu of lacking the boldness to present a regular budget, suggesting that Naidu is avoiding the incorporation of unfulfilled election promises. Reddy, who recently protested in Delhi against alleged political violence in Andhra Pradesh, garnered support from various INDIA bloc members. He criticized the current government's handling of law and order, alleging widespread atrocities and police inaction. The political battle between Naidu and Reddy continues to escalate, reflecting deep divisions and challenges within Andhra Pradesh's governance.