Andhra Pradesh Assembly polls: Congress announces its first candidate; names Vantala Subbarao

A large public gathering organized by the Congress party in Chintapalli witnessed enthusiastic participation as APCC Chief YS Sharmila Reddy took the stage as the chief guest.

The gathering also paid homage to the revered freedom fighter, Manyam Dora Alluri Sitarama Raju, hailed as a hero for resisting British rule. Sharmila Reddy invoked Raju's legacy, emphasizing his courage and dedication as an inspiration for the present generation.

"As Alluri drove out the British, now drive out the dictators too," declared Sharmila Reddy, expressing a strong stance against oppressive leadership. She called for a political landscape that prioritizes the people over party interests.

Highlighting the Congress party's historical support for Adivasis, Sharmila Reddy underscored the achievements during YSR's tenure. She pointed out the allocation of 20 lakh acres of land titles, financial support through passbooks and loans, and the full utilization of Sub Plan funds under ITDA for tribal development.

Drawing attention to the current government's alleged negligence, Sharmila Reddy criticized the lack of attention to issues like bauxite mining, inadequate infrastructure in tribal areas, and the plight of tribal youths without adequate employment opportunities.

The speech addressed the concerns arising from the cancellation of G.O.3, affecting Adivasi rights and employment. Reddy pledged that if Congress comes to power, G.O.3 will be reinstated, and the party will champion the cause of tribals in the Supreme Court regarding the 1/70 act.

Asserting the significance of special status for the state's development, Sharmila Reddy called out the current government for purportedly failing to secure it despite promises. She assured the audience that the Congress party, under the commitment of Rahul Gandhi, is determined to bring special status to the state. (ANI)