The special status promised to the state of Andhra Pradesh after its bifurcation has become a subject of controversy. The state was divided without a capital, which was a major blow, and the special status was meant to provide some relief.
The promise was made by the UPA government, and the BJP even promised to extend the status for 15 years after coming to power. However, the promise has not been fulfilled, and the issue has been repeatedly raised in parliament with no action taken.
The Centre has repeatedly stated that the demand for special status for Andhra Pradesh is a finished issue and that the 14th Financial Commission's recommendations do not allow for it. The Centre claims that the funds allocated to the state have already addressed the disparity between Andhra Pradesh and other states. The Centre has also announced a special package for the state, which it claims has already been granted.
However, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy continues to raise the issue of special status during his visits to Delhi. The Centre's refusal to grant special status to the state has led to frustration among the people of Andhra Pradesh. Even recently when a YSRCP MP asked in the parliament, the Centre replied that AP doesn't fulfill any conditions such as hilly/mountainous area, totally lack of infrastructure and state with border shared with a sensitive country etc.
Categorically, it has once again rejected the notion of special status. Despite knowing that it is tough to fetch any votes for Andhra BJP, the Centre is clear about continuing the injustice meted out to AP.
