The Lok Sabha on Wednesday passed a bill to recognise Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh. While the ruling NDA and Congress backed the move, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) opposed it and staged a walkout during the voting.
Bill Passed With Broad Support
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill was passed by a voice vote, with support from both the NDA and the Congress. Union Minister of State for Home Nityanand Rai thanked members for backing the move, which gives legal status to Amaravati as the state’s capital.
What The Bill Proposes
The legislation seeks to formally recognise Amaravati as the sole and permanent capital of Andhra Pradesh with effect from June 2, 2024.
It also amends provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, ensuring that the capital status cannot be altered in the future.
Political Divide Over Capital Issue
While the bill saw support across parties, the YSR Congress Party strongly opposed it. Its members walked out, alleging that key concerns especially those of farmers who gave land for Amaravati remain unaddressed.
YSRCP MP P V Midhun Reddy argued that compensation promises, including developed plots and welfare benefits, have not been fulfilled.
Background: Three Capitals Vs One
The capital issue has remained politically contentious. Former Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had proposed a three-capital model:
Executive capital at Visakhapatnam
Legislative capital at Amaravati
Judicial capital at Kurnool
However, after returning to power in 2024, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu scrapped the plan and reaffirmed Amaravati as the single capital.
Arguments In Favour
Supporting the bill, BJP MP C. M. Ramesh termed the three-capital idea “illogical,” stating that a permanent capital would bring stability, investment, and growth.
Congress leader Manickam Tagore also backed the bill, while reiterating the demand for special status for Andhra Pradesh.
Concerns Raised By Opposition
YSRCP leaders questioned:
Lack of clarity on funding for Amaravati’s development
Delays in compensation to farmers who gave over 34,000 acres
Absence of a clear implementation timeline
They argued that without addressing these issues, the bill lacks practical value.
Legal Backing To Capital Decision
The bill follows a resolution passed by the Andhra Pradesh Assembly urging the Centre to grant statutory status to Amaravati. Once enacted, it will cement Amaravati’s position as the capital, replacing earlier transitional arrangements under the 2014 reorganisation law.
The passage of the bill marks a decisive step in settling Andhra Pradesh’s long-standing capital debate. However, political opposition and concerns over implementation indicate that the issue may continue to generate debate beyond Parliament.
