Striking at enemy’s economic roots is the age-old strategy in war. The YSRCP government in Andhra Pradesh is adopting the same towards TDP by targeting financially strong leaders in the opposition party. Many of them are granite traders and mining barons. Cancellation of mining leases has become a hot topic in the State now.
Galaxy granite mined in Prakasam district is popular worldwide. The YSRCP government soon after coming to power set its eyes on TDP leaders who have been in the business for the last two decades. The government issued notices to 26 granite companies belonging to Chirala MLA Karanam Balaram, former minister Sidda Raghava Rao, Addanki TDP MLA Gottipati Ravi Kumar, Kandukur former MLA Potula Rama Rao and their associates. It is learnt that they were told they can continue their trade as usual by joining YSRCP or will have to face problems.
Finding it difficult to lose granite business, Karanam Balaram, Sidda Raghava Rao and his brothers have switched loyalty to the ruling party. Gottipati Ravi Kumar and Pothula Rama Rao who have remained in TDP have moved to court for relief. The court has ordered the government to stop the cancellation process. Looking for ways to harass them, the government has brought in the Pollution Control Board into the scenario. The board officials submitted to the court that they were cancelling the licences as the granite mines were causing severe pollution.
Financial shackles
YSRCP wants to deprive TDP of any financial sources that could help it to strengthen by 2024 elections. The YSRCP is obtaining intelligence reports on those who are backing the TDP financially in the district. It is of the view that by striking at five or six major financial supporters of the TDP in the district, the party would be starved of funds, and thus, loses its clout. As part of this plan, the government cancelled the licences of 11 granite companies owned by Ravi Kumar.
‘Operation Akarsh’ is half completed in Prakasam district. While two important leaders have joined the ruling party, businesses of two others have been shut down. Only Agritech owner and Parchur MLA Yeluri Sambasiva Rao remained untouched so far since he is carrying out agriculture-based businesses. Though there were rumours that Sambasiva Rao too was going to switch his loyalty, he put an end to them by holding a press meet.
However, besides support of one community in the district, the Telugu Desam party has strong cadre at grassroots level. Party chief Naidu would like to prove the party’s strength in the local body elections.
