*Public money for private interests?*

Tadepalli, Feb 23: YSRCP State spokesperson Karumuri Venkata Reddy criticised that the state has witnessed 20 months of extravagant and exploitative governance under the present regime, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu misusing public resources for political and private interests. Addressing the media in Tadepalli, he said the Tirumala Laddu issue was politicised for electoral gains, ultimately backfired. He further stated that through Heritage Finlease company, Chandrababu invested in VSR Ventures, and that the government is now bearing aviation expenses that indirectly benefit related entities. According to him, nearly Rs. 54 crore is being paid annually towards flight expenses alone, raising serious concerns about financial propriety.
Karumuri Venkata Reddy also questioned the circumstances surrounding the Ajit Pawar aircraft accident, stating that Union Minister Ram Mohan Naidu’s remark attributing it to fog even before the official report was released appeared suspicious. He demanded clarity on the recent helicopter procurement and leasing arrangement, pointing out that a helicopter was purchased for Rs. 172 crore while an additional Rs. 3 crore per month is reportedly being paid as rental. He called for a comprehensive and independent inquiry into the helicopter purchase, leasing arrangements, and escalating aviation expenditures, asserting that the people of Andhra Pradesh deserve transparency and accountability in the use of public funds.