Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy strongly criticized Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, stating that legal cases would not deter his commitment to public struggles. Addressing the ongoing crisis faced by chili farmers, Jagan accused the state government of inaction and called for immediate intervention to support the farming community.
Jagan highlighted that due to pest infestations, chili yields have dropped to 10 quintals per acre, forcing farmers to sell at distress prices of Rs 10,000 per acre, despite investment costs exceeding Rs 1.5 lakh. He questioned the government’s delay in responding to the crisis and demanded immediate procurement measures.
Criticizing Chandrababu’s approach, Jagan alleged that instead of taking direct responsibility, the government was misleading farmers by writing to the central government. He pointed out that NAFED has never procured chilies in any state, questioning the rationale behind such correspondence. He further stated that during his tenure, the state ensured minimum support prices (MSP) for 24 crops and took steps to stabilize market prices, whereas the current administration had failed to announce new MSPs or support farmers effectively.
Jagan also condemned the state government for allegedly dismantling key agricultural support systems, including Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs), e-crop verification, free crop insurance, and direct procurement mechanisms. He held Chandrababu’s administration responsible for pushing farmers into crisis by failing to implement timely interventions.
Responding to legal cases filed against him for meeting chili farmers, Jagan questioned why election regulations were not enforced when Chandrababu attended a musical night on February 15 but were cited to obstruct his visit. He emphasized that his party was not contesting the ongoing MLC elections and had not solicited votes, making the allegations baseless.
Jagan reiterated that he remains committed to farmers and the public, stating that legal cases would not deter his resolve. He urged the state government to take immediate action to procure chilies directly from farmers to stabilize prices and provide financial relief.