Sharmila Fires Back at TDP Over Remarks on YSR Family

Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee president Y. S. Sharmila launched a sharp attack on leaders of the Telugu Desam Party for making allegations against former Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy and his father Y. S. Raja Reddy. She called the criticism politically motivated and accused the ruling alliance of trying to hide its failures by targeting leaders who are no longer alive to defend themselves.

Responding through social media, Sharmila questioned why no investigation or legal action had been initiated during earlier TDP governments if the accusations were true. She alleged that the coalition government was attempting to divert public attention due to the absence of major achievements after two years in power.

Defending Raja Reddy’s legacy, Sharmila described him as a prominent figure who fought against injustice in Rayalaseema and worked for the welfare of poor communities. She highlighted that he established a 70-bed hospital in Kadapa district in 1973 to provide free medical care and also set up educational institutions for underprivileged students.

Sharmila further praised YSR’s administration for introducing several welfare schemes, including Aarogyasri, fee reimbursement, free electricity for farmers, and loan waivers. Referring to the Polavaram Project, she claimed that a major portion of the project was completed during YSR’s tenure and questioned why later governments failed to finish the remaining works.

She asserted that YSR’s popularity among the people remains unchanged despite continued criticism. Sharmila also credited him with helping reduce factional violence in Kadapa district and urged the ruling alliance to focus on fulfilling election promises instead of making accusations against departed leaders.