Last week, the Union Finance Ministry allocated a substantial Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati through multilateral agencies, marking the largest financial allotment to the city in the past five years. This move is intended to bolster development and bring much-needed funds to the region. However, the financial aid has sparked a political controversy, with BJP leader GVL Narasimha Rao labeling the allocation as a long-term loan rather than a direct grant. This stance has ignited a debate, especially as the central NDA government takes responsibility for securing the loan, leading to differing interpretations of the financial assistance.

GVL Narasimha Rao’s remarks align closely with criticisms from YCP leaders, who have been framing the funding as merely a loan and not as a generous grant from the central government. Rao’s statements have garnered media attention and fueled ongoing political tensions. His comments suggest that the Andhra Pradesh government might be responsible for repaying the loan, which could impact public perception and the political dynamics between the central and state governments.

The controversy surrounding the Rs 15,000 crore funding echoes past political maneuvers seen during the 2017 BJP-TDP alliance era, where similar tactics were used to criticize the TDP government. The current situation, with GVL’s provocative statements coming just months after the NDA’s formation in Andhra Pradesh, suggests a revival of these strategic games. Instead of focusing on the positive aspects of the funding, GVL’s approach could potentially undermine the central government’s efforts and further complicate the political landscape in Andhra Pradesh.