Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Andhra Pradesh Congress Chief Y.S. Sharmila launched a fierce critique against the central government, accusing it of turning a blind eye to the plight of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, a critical employer of 26,000 workers.

She pointed out the disparity in funding, emphasizing that while the Karnataka Steel Plant, employing only 243 workers, received significant financial support, the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant was overlooked.

Sharmila also took aim at the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Jana Sena, accusing them of appeasing the NDA government at the Center. “The JDS, with just two MPs, managed to secure Rs.15,000 crore in funds from the Center. Yet, the TDP and Jana Sena, who strengthened the NDA’s position, have chosen to remain silent and submissive,” she remarked.

Highlighting the prolonged protests of the steel plant workers, Sharmila noted that labor demonstrations demanding justice for the plant have persisted for 1,400 days.

She alleged that while workers continue their fight, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is focused on discussing the establishment of Mittal Steel with the Prime Minister.

“Chandrababu is lobbying for the Center to ensure a steady supply of iron ore for Mittal’s proposed steel plant. Where is the fairness in this?” questioned Sharmila. She reiterated the Congress party’s long-standing demand to merge the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) to safeguard its future.

Concluding her remarks, Sharmila demanded that the TDP and Jana Sena withdraw their support for the NDA government if justice is not served to the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant.