CM Naidu Criticizes Jagan Reddy Over Rishikonda Construction

By A Staff Reporter

Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – In a scathing address, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu criticized the construction projects undertaken by Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy in Rishikonda, labeling them as excessive and self-serving. Speaking at an event in Visakhapatnam, Naidu expressed his concerns about environmental degradation and the financial burden imposed on the public due to what he referred to as a "Raja Palace."

"It is surprising that buildings like Rishikonda are built in a democracy," said Naidu, voicing his disbelief at the scale and nature of these constructions. He alleged that Chief Minister Reddy undertook these projects solely for personal gain, compromising natural landscapes in the process. Naidu also pointed out that when he had previously expressed interest in visiting the Rishikonda site, he was denied access. This restriction was also reportedly extended to Janasena Chief Pawan Kalyan and various BJP leaders.

Further, Naidu criticized the allocation of funds, stating that while the region's irrigation projects have suffered, with North Andhra receiving minimal investment, an estimated ₹500 crore was channeled into the construction of the Rishikonda complex. “Rs 400 crore was not spent on irrigation in North Andhra, but Rs 500 crore was spent on just one palace,” he remarked, underscoring the disparity in fund allocation.

Naidu's comments have drawn public attention to the ongoing debate over governance and resource allocation in Andhra Pradesh. His remarks resonate with concerns about environmental preservation, responsible governance, and transparency, as well as calls for greater accountability in the use of public resources for infrastructure projects across the state.