“Lands Looted in the Name of Development”: Ex-Minister Merugu Nagarjuna Slams Naidu Govt

Hyderabad

“Lands Looted in the Name of Development”: Ex-Minister Merugu Nagarjuna Slams Naidu Govt

Former Minister Merugu Nagarjuna launched a scathing attack on the Chandrababu Naidu-led government, accusing it of orchestrating massive land scams and resource exploitation under the guise of development. He alleged that Andhra Pradesh’s valuable assets are being handed over to private players and benami companies at the cost of public welfare.

Nagarjuna pointed out that thousands of acres of prime government land are being allotted to companies with no credibility, no address, and no proven track record. He questioned the intent behind such shady allotments, asking: “For what purpose are lands being sold at a token price of 99 paise per acre?”

He alleged that shell companies and benamis linked to ruling party leaders were being favored, while genuine bidders were deliberately sidelined from the global tendering process.

Taking strong exception to the government’s move to allot land to Switzerland-based companies, Nagarjuna termed it a “malicious agenda” and warned that such decisions will bring no benefit to the people of Andhra Pradesh. “This is nothing but looting public assets under the garb of foreign investment,” he said.

Turning his criticism to the power sector, the former minister accused the government of large-scale corruption in electricity purchases. He pointed out that while power during the previous regime was bought at Rs. 2.49 per unit, the current government is purchasing it at Rs. 4.59 per unit. “When we bought power at a lower rate, the opposition raised a hue and cry. Now, despite such costly purchases, there is silence. Why is this daylight robbery going unquestioned?” he demanded.

Nagarjuna also demanded strict action against TDP MLA Kuna Ravikumar, alleging that he had harassed a woman professor. “Law cannot be different for the powerful. The MLA must be arrested without delay,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Nagarjuna appealed to the people of Andhra Pradesh to stay vigilant. “The government is mortgaging the future of our children by selling land, looting resources, and burdening citizens with costly electricity. This is not development—it is betrayal,” he added.

Also read: Pakistani Man Accused of Forcibly Converting Wife, Daughter to Islam in Hyderabad