TDP–Janasena rift bursts open over Pollution Control Board Corruption

Tadepalli, September 21: YSRCP Guntur Parliamentary Constituency Observer Pothina Mahesh exposed large-scale corruption in the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board, stating that Chairman Krishnaiah is extorting huge sums from industries under the directions of Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan.

Speaking at the YSRCP central office, Mahesh said the illegal collections are being diverted to the Janasena party, causing anger within the coalition. “Even TDP MLA Bonda Uma raised the issue on the Assembly floor. If there is nothing to hide, why did Pawan Kalyan react with such fury?” he asked.

Mahesh said that Krishnaiah has amassed wealth in Hyderabad, set up benami pre-processing units in Jaggayyapeta and Rajahmundry, and is forcing pharma and cement companies into settlements. Small AP-based units are being destroyed while Telangana-based firms are favored, each paying up to Rs. 50 lakh. Transfers and promotions in the Board are also being sold for crores.

Industries that resist are harassed with inspections and closure threats. “This racket generates lakhs daily, yet the CM is trying to suppress it to shield his coalition partner,” Mahesh said.

Slamming Pawan Kalyan’s hypocrisy, he noted: “While preaching about environment protection, his department is looting industries. He even admitted in the Assembly that unlike the previous government, his regime will not enforce strict norms, putting corporate profits above public health.”

Mahesh demanded a transparent probe into the corruption scandal, saying it has become an open secret now exposed by coalition partner TDP itself.