Two Pusapati sisters are preparing for a fight over historical Maharaja (MR) College in Vizianagaram as their paternal uncle and TDP leader Pusapati Ashok Gajapathi Raju is settling down to enjoy the spectacle.
Privatisation row
MANSAS Trust’s current chairperson Sanchaita has reportedly prepared the ground for the privatization of famous MR Degree College in Vizianagaram. She also sent a recommendation to the state government to this effect. But this is being opposed by her younger sister and MANSAS director Urmila Gajapathi Raju.
Damage to reputation
Expressing serious objections to the bid to privatize the college, Urmila released a letter. It says:
“MR College was the first college in Vizianagaram established in 1879 by our forefather Maharaja Vijayarama Gajapathi. Its history is strongly intertwined with the history of Vizianagaram. This college has provided affordable education to all sections of students at nominal fees. Further, it is the main objective of MANSAS trust to ensure job security to all those working in it. Now the current chairperson of MANSAS Trust is trying to privatize this glorious and historical institution.
She is thus trying to tarnish the image of our grandfather PVG Raju and my father Ananda Gajapathi Raju and our family. It is sad that she is taking up many such actions even while claiming that she is striving to protect the image and reputation of the family. There is no doubt that her current action is against the values and ideals which our father stood for.
There are many people who studied in MR College and excelled and are excelling in their respective fields. They include politicians, high court judges and poets. Many great personalities like Gandhiji, Nehruji and Sarojini Naidu had visited the college. Everyone has a right to education. I and my mother strongly oppose any attempt to deprive that right to the poor. We assure the people of Vizianagaram we will protect the objectives of MANSAS Trust.
Urmila Gajapathi Raju”
Who is Urmila?
Urmila is the daughter of Pusapati scion Ananda Gajapathi Raju’s second wife. Sanchaita is first wife’s daughter. So, both are half-sisters. The state government appointed Urmila as director of MANSAS Trust when it heli-dropped Sanchaita as its chairperson. The college has now become a battle ground between the two siblings.
Agitation intensifies
There has been strong opposition from opposition parties, civil society organisations and students unions to the proposed privatization of MR College. Let’s see where this situation leads in the coming days.
