The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet meeting on Monday witnessed strong emotional undercurrents as the long-pending and sensitive issue of the Annamayya district headquarters; particularly the status of Rayachoti; sparked intense discussion within the ruling alliance.
Transport Minister Mandipalli Ramprasad Reddy reportedly became emotional during deliberations on the proposal to shift the district headquarters from Rayachoti, highlighting the deep political and emotional significance of the issue.
His reaction reflected the strong sentiments attached to the proposed administrative reorganisation.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu intervened to console the Minister and explained the technical and administrative challenges involved in retaining Rayachoti as the district headquarters.
He outlined the government’s reasoning behind the proposed change and assured Mr. Ramprasad Reddy that the concerns of Rayachoti would be addressed.
The Chief Minister said the district reorganisation process was being guided by long-term administrative efficiency, public convenience, and the need for balanced and viable district structures.
Referring to the demands raised, he questioned whether it would be administratively practical to elevate a single Assembly constituency into a full-fledged district.
Seeking to reassure stakeholders, Mr. Naidu stated that the Rayachoti Assembly constituency would be developed into a major district-level growth centre.
He added that he would personally monitor efforts to accelerate infrastructure development, strengthen administrative facilities, and ensure overall growth in the region.
Later, Mr. Ramprasad Reddy described both the party and the people of Rayachoti as his “two eyes,” reaffirming his commitment to the constituency.
He pointed out that while Railway Kodur favoured Tirupati and Rajampet leaned towards Kadapa, Rayachoti had remained isolated.
He also clarified that the gazette notification issued on November 27 made no mention of any change in the district headquarters and that no official proposal had been placed in the past month.
However, he said the Chief Minister had recently communicated the decision to shift the headquarters while assuring him that Rayachoti’s development would remain a top priority.
Briefing the media after the Cabinet meeting, Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad dismissed speculation about hasty decisions or possible resignations, stating that Mr. Ramprasad Reddy remained fully focused on the development of the region.