YSR Congress Party’s claims of irregularities in land allotments to companies in Visakhapatnam led to a contentious discussion in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council. The main opposition party, led by Botsa Satyanarayana, walked out following intense exchanges with the ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP). Allegations were made by YSRCP members regarding the allocation of lands to real estate groups under the guise of IT companies.
Minister for Information Technology Nara Lokesh refuted the opposition’s claims, stating that only five reputable companies were granted land on lease for 99 paise. He criticized the YSRCP for making unsubstantiated allegations and then leaving the session abruptly. The debate initiated during the question hour when YSRCP MLC T. Madhava Rao sought details on companies receiving land for 99 paise in the past 20 months.
MLC Madhava Rao alleged that newly established companies were also granted land for 99 paise, citing instances where land worth significantly more was allocated at nominal rates. He further claimed that an educational institution had encroached upon land valued at Rs 5,000 crore. Responding to accusations, Lokesh emphasized the government’s efforts to attract investments and generate employment opportunities, aiming to create 20 lakh jobs within five years.
Lokesh highlighted the establishment of 22 clusters across the state and defended the allocation of land to companies like Arcelor Mittal, TCS, and Cognizant. He accused the YSRCP of hindering state investments and emphasized the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth. The minister questioned the opposition on the lack of new companies entering Visakhapatnam during the YSRCP’s previous governance.
