The coalition government in Andhra Pradesh is facing sharp criticism for resorting to large-scale borrowing. Much of this criticism, observers say, is not without merit. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu frequently speaks about “wealth creation.” However, while it is unclear how much wealth is being created for the state, there are growing allegations that, during his current term, selected contractors and a few influential industrialists are being given significant opportunities to accumulate wealth. This, critics argue, is being done not only by generously allocating state resources but also by allowing future revenues of the state to flow into their hands.
There is also an internal debate within the ruling Telugu Desam Party itself that the situation in the state’s Revenue Department has deteriorated even further compared to the period when the YSR Congress Party was in power. In particular, leaders from the ruling side are accused of misusing “22A lands” as a tool to carry out large-scale irregularities. According to sources within the TDP, some leaders are allegedly threatening landowners by claiming that their patta lands will be included in the prohibited list under various pretexts, such as complaints being filed. Later, after settlements are reached, efforts are reportedly made to remove those lands from the prohibited list. Such practices are said to be occurring across several districts, with both ruling party leaders and some coalition partners involved, as per discussions within departmental circles.
At a time when allegations of rampant land dealings are already widespread in the state, reports have emerged in the media suggesting that the government is considering transferring powers related to 22A lands to Joint Collectors and Revenue Divisional Officers (RDOs). Officials believe that when such authority rests with higher offices like the CCLA and District Collectors, decisions are taken with greater caution. However, if these powers are delegated to JCs and RDOs, there is a risk of large-scale irregularities. The government has yet to take a final decision on this matter.
In many areas, especially where land prices are high, there are allegations that some public representatives are heavily misusing the 22A provision. An IAS officer remarked that any decision taken by the government should benefit the public and not become a boon for those engaging in illegal activities. Although Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has repeatedly stated that most issues in the state stem from the Revenue Department, there is ongoing discussion within official circles that many long-pending problems remain unresolved, with no concrete decisions taken so far.