Launched a scathing attack on the TDP government, led by Chandrababu Naidu, for initiating the privatization of 10 medical colleges, former Chief Minister and YSRCP chief YS Jaganmohan Reddy accused the TDP government of prioritizing political vendetta over efficient governance, exposing what he termed the administration’s anarchic ways.
Jagan launched the “Chalo Narsipatnam” rally on Thursday, strongly protesting against the move and conducted a roadshow from Visakhapatnam Airport, drawing scores of YSRCP activists, admirers, and supporters. Terming the medical colleges initiated by his government as “modern temples”, he stressed that these institutes, equipped with super-speciality hospitals, had the potential to transform the public healthcare system in the State.
“These medical colleges assure affordable medical education for aspiring doctors and free, quality healthcare for the underprivileged,” he said. Slamming Chandrababu Naidu for privatizing these institutions, he questioned where the poor would go in the absence of free and quality healthcare. Announcing the party’s campaign against privatization, Jagan said it would run until November 24.
As part of the campaign, one crore signatures will be collected from house to house, educating people on the dangers of privatizing medical colleges. These signatures will be submitted to the Governor, demanding the government roll back its decision.
Jagan recalled that until the YSRCP came to power in 2019, Andhra Pradesh had only 12 medical colleges. Under his government, foundation stones were laid for 17 medical colleges—one in each district. Despite the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, he claimed that construction of all colleges continued at full pace, with four colleges in North Andhra — Vizianagaram, Paderu, Narsipatnam, and Parvathipuram.
“Under the YSRCP, five medical colleges were inaugurated, and classes began. Two more colleges in Pulivendula and Paderu were also ready. The National Medical Commission had given approval, allowing 50 medical seats in each. However, Chandrababu Naidu rejected the NMC’s approval,” he alleged.
Addressing allegations that no GO was issued for Narsipatnam Medical College, Jagan presented the government order and remarked, “The Speaker and the Chief Minister must bow their heads in shame for trying to mislead the people.” He explained that the college, being built on 52 acres, would have served nearby constituencies.
“At present, there are only two government medical colleges in North Andhra– King George Hospital in Vizag and RIMS in Srikakulam. People are often forced to travel 200 km for treatment,” he highlighted. Responding to claims of insufficient funds for building the colleges, Jagan revealed that NABARD had provided loans and the project had special assistance from the Central government, making it eligible for interest-free loans for 50 years.
Stating that the colleges require ₹5,000 crore over five years, he asked: “Does Chandrababu Naidu not have ₹1,000 crore to spend each year? Does he understand the scale of beneficiaries these medical colleges could help?” Exposing the TDP government, YS Jagan noted that the ruling alliance claims to have no funds to run medical colleges for one reason—Amaravati.