The Central government coming to their rescue has been the last ray of hope amongst the Amaravati farmers who have waging protests against the three capital decision taken by the state government. However, the Centre on Tuesday made it clear that choosing the location of the capital is the prerogative of the governments of respective states. While the TDP MP Galla Jayadev raised the concern in Lok Sabha on Tuesday, Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai extended clarification over the issue stating that it won’t intervene in the issue.
“It is for each state to decide on the capital within its territory”, said the minister. Further, in a written reply that ruled out any intervention by the Centre, Nityanand said: “Recently media reports have appeared indicating the State Government’s decision to create three capitals for the State of Andhra Pradesh. It is for each State to decide its capital within its territory.” However, responding to TDP’s query regarding the alleged police brutality on the protesting farmers, the minister assured that the Centre monitors and sends forces if requested for by the state.
Meanwhile, a farmers’ delegation, led by members of the Amaravati Parirakshana Samithi JAC met Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu in New Delhi urging him to look into their problems. The delegation has reportedly reminded the Vice President his proactive role in bringing several projects and setting up of institutions in AP post bifurcation. Sources revealed that, Venkaiah Naidu assured them justice and promised that he would hold talks with the centre over the constitutional aspects. TDP MPs and Amaravati JAC leaders accompanied the farmers during the meeting. On this note, state political circles are rife with speculations that Venkaiah Naidu would soon play a crucial role in state politics.
