Vijayawada: In the wake of reports that the Centre is likely to announce a “development package” rather than giving special status tag to Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday responded to the reports saying he would not accept anything short of special status.
Stating that he had so far been receiving updates only through media, Chandrababu Naidu reportedly said he had no idea as to when the Centre would announce its decision. Naidu is learnt to have discussed with his Cabinet colleagues and arrived to a conclusion that Andhra Pradesh would not compromise on special status although there were several indications from the Centre that a package is awaiting the residual State of AP.
Keeping his protocol aside, the Chief Minister held a meeting with the Ministers and organised a tele-conference with the leaders on the developments from Delhi. It is also learnt that Union Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu reportedly asked the AP CM to fly to Delhi as there is likely announcement on special status or package to the State. However, it seems that Centre’s help in terms of monetary aid is not enthusing Naidu.
Meanwhile, close aides of Naidu told him to play the cards close to his chest as the Centre brought the special package to the fore when the AP Assembly is scheduled to ratify GST Bill tomorrow.
Ahead of Jana Sena founder Pawan Kalyan’s public meeting in Kakinada to fight for special status on September 9, the move from the Centre assumed significance.
