The decision of Centre to privatise Vizag Steel Plant (RINL) drew immense outrage from all corners of the state. Several organizations, Vizag Steel employees and unions began the protest following the proposal by the Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs. Though the Centre has not reacted towards the issue till now, speculations are that they are moving forward with the plans. In this scenario, the TDP leader sat on a hunger strike and strongly criticized the Centre for its stand to privatise Rashtriya Ispat Nigam Ltd. Now the TDP leader’s protest has entered the sixth day, and the medical team of doctors who inspected his weakening health informed about the decline in his blood sugar levels. The doctors have told that him that if he continues the hunger strike, his health may deteriorate further and that his kidneys may be affected. This had led to concerns among his family members and TDP cadre.
On the other hand, his hunger strike has received support from everyone. CPI Narayana met Srinivasa Rao and even expressed his solidarity. The CPI leader said that those eyeing to purchase the steel plant need to be stopped at any cost and questioned the Centre of its decision to sell the plant which was achieved by the sacrifice and struggle of Andhra people. Meanwhile, Chalasani Srinivas Yadav demanded all MPs to protest in front of PM Modi’s residence to stop the privatisation.
