Congress Promises 10-Year Special Category Status to Andhra Pradesh if Voted to Power

The Congress party has pledged to grant Andhra Pradesh a 10-year special category status if it wins the upcoming elections. This announcement was made by APCC president Y S Sharmila in the presence of senior party leaders, including former Rajasthan deputy chief minister Sachin Pilot.

Updated: Saturday, March 2, 2024, 0:54 [IST]

The Congress party made a significant declaration in Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, on Friday, promising to grant the state a 10-year special category status as soon as it comes to power at the Centre. This announcement was made by Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) president Y S Sharmila in the presence of senior party leaders from the southern state, including former Rajasthan deputy chief minister and senior Congress leader Sachin Pilot.

Congress Game-Changing Promise: Special Status for Andhra Pradesh — Representative image

Immediate Action and Unfulfilled Promises

Sharmila asserted that immediately after coming to power, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's first official act will be to sign the special category status for Andhra Pradesh. She addressed a public meeting at the Taraka Rama ground in the temple town, highlighting the unfulfilled promise made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi 10 years ago in Tirupati to accord the special category status to the state.

Commitment to Andhra Pradesh's Development

Sachin Pilot emphasized the Congress party's commitment to protecting the interests of Andhra Pradesh, especially in light of its role in bifurcating the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh. He stressed that the special category status is crucial for the state's development and progress, and both the Congress party and Rahul Gandhi are dedicated to fulfilling this demand.

Appeal for Support

Pilot concluded his speech by making an earnest appeal to the people of Andhra Pradesh, saying, "I pray to you with folded hands that give us your blessings and support. Help the Congress change the BJP government." This heartfelt request underscores the party's desire to gain public support and bring about a change in the current political landscape.