Targeting Jagan over economy, Chandrababu Naidu invokes NTR, says TDP is pillar of Telugu people

“From day one, the Jagan Reddy government has been functioning with the sole aim of destroying the state,” he said. He lamented that Andhra Pradesh’s revenue had fallen very low in comparison to neighbouring Telangana. He said that while the revenue of both states were nearly the same in 2019 – the year Jagan took office as CM – in 2022-23, there is a bigger difference. According to Naidu, Telangana’s revenue in 2022-23 is Rs 37,259 crore more than Andhra Pradesh’s.

He also said that in 2019, the revenue that Andhra Pradesh made through both GST and the registrations department was higher than what Telangana was making. However, by 2022-23, Telangana has overtaken Andhra on both these fronts, he added.

“All this is because there are no business activities in Andhra Pradesh,” Naidu claimed.

He said that had all projects, including the Amaravati capital city, been completed, Andhra Pradesh would have flourished.

Addressing party workers, supporters, and people gathered at the conclave, Naidu said that the TDP flag was a pillar for the Telugu community across the globe. Referring to the party’s symbol, the cycle, he said the front wheel stood for welfare while the rear wheel stood for development.

Urging people to bring the TDP back to power, he said, “If some people come in the way, let us move ahead by crushing them.”

Invoking the late NTR, Naidu said the TDP founder brought global recognition to Telugu society. “We are descendants of such a great leader,” he said.

He also spoke of the cultural and traditional importance of Rajamahendravaram, where the party conclave is being held. He pointed to its connection with the great 11th century poet Nannayya, and also mentioned that it was the place where social reformer and writer Kandukuri Veeresalingam was born, and where 19th century engineer and critic of the British Raj, Sir Arthur Cotton, lived.

Naidu called the conclave historic, pointing out that it was being held in the same year that NTR’s centenary birth anniversary is being celebrated.

“Yellow is an auspicious colour, and people are becoming enthusiastic on seeing the party flag,” he said.

He also said that the marginalised communities of Madigas and Dudekulas have submitted a list of demands to the TDP. “From this platform, I am assuring all the communities that justice will certainly be done to them as per their population ratio,” he said.