LS approval for Amaravati Bill a key milestone in history of AP: BJP

Vijayawada: Lanka Dinakar, chairman of the Twenty-Point Programme Implementation (Viksit Bharat–Swarna Andhra Pradesh), said the approval of the Amaravati Capital Legitimacy Bill in the Lok Sabha marks a historic milestone for the state. He noted that the decision provides clear direction from the Centre to strengthen Amaravati as the sole capital, and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union home minister Amit Shah.Dinakar recalled that the unanimous resolution passed in the State Assembly on March 28, recommending amendments to Section 5(2) of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, will remain a landmark moment. He emphasised that the Lok Sabha's approval is crucial for development, administrative stability, and investment attraction. He assured that the government will honour the sacrifices of farmers who gave land for the capital and continue to take special measures for their welfare.He said Amaravati will be developed as a world-class capital city under the Smart City concept, with modern infrastructure. The passage of the bill, he added, will boost investor confidence and open opportunities in IT, industry, and services, generating employment for youth.Responding to remarks by former chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Dinakar explained that only Parliament has authority over residuary subjects under the Constitution, including matters relating to state capitals. He criticised Jagan's statements as a misunderstanding of constitutional provisions. Dinakar stressed that Amaravati's development is not a financial burden but a long-term investment, and that the three-capitals policy created uncertainty and was rejected by the judiciary.Rejecting allegations of injustice to farmers, he reiterated the government's commitment to their welfare. He dismissed claims that Amaravati would fail to attract investments, pointing to rising investor interest. He also rejected arguments about regional imbalance, highlighting industrial initiatives in Visakhapatnam, Amaravati, and Tirupati regions. He concluded that the decision is a key step toward overall progress and said the people will remember the "double-engine government" of the TDP, BJP, and Jana Sena Party.