Communist Party of India (Marxist) activists on Monday staged dharnas across Prakasam district protesting the Union government’s “failure” to confer Special Category status on Andhra Pradesh.
Leading a protest in front of the Prakasam Bhavan here, CPI(M) district secretary P. Anjaneyulu said it was unfortunate that Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was putting the blame on the 14th Finance Commission for the NDA government’s failure to keep its poll promises.
“The change in stand after the polls is nothing but cheating people who have voted the TDP-BJP combine to power,” he said, adding that the Centre should implement the provisions of the State Reorganisation Act.
On the release of a “meagre” Rs. 350 crore for seven backward districts of the State, he said the CPI(M) would step up stir for justice to AP by roping in like-minded Left and democratic forces.
“The TDP, which shared power with the BJP at the Centre and the State, is not fighting for the State’s cause sincerely,” lamented former CPI(M) district secretary J. Anjaiah.
CPI(M) city secretary G.V. Konda Reddy urged the Centre to provide a special drought-mitigation package for Prakasam district, which had remained backward ever since its formation. Protests were organised in 16 towns in the district.
