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The CPI (M) criticised the Andhra Pradesh government alleging ‘serious discrimination’ against SC and ST entrepreneurs and demanding the immediate release of long-pending industrial subsidies.
Addressing a press conference on Thursday, CPI(M) State secretary V. Srinivasa Rao accused successive State administrations of favouring large corporate houses while neglecting marginalised communities.
He highlighted that subsidies pending for nearly three years had pushed hundreds of SC entrepreneurs into financial distress, forcing protests at the APIIC headquarters in Mangalagiri. Women protesters were allegedly denied basic facilities, which he said amounted to a violation of the SC/ST Atrocities Act. Mr. Rao said the CPI(M) was planning to complain to the Human Rights Commission.
While ₹1,100 crore was recently released as industrial subsidies, he claimed most went to large companies, including Kia Motors, Emami Agrotech, Apollo Tyres, and Siemens, leaving Dalits, tribals, and the poor struggling with debt. He demanded that subsidies be disbursed strictly based on seniority from 2022, rather than selectively.
Mr. Rao also raised concerns over Anganwadi workers, stating that promises made two years ago remain unfulfilled. He urged the government to recognise them as employees and provide wages on par with Gujarat’s model of minimum ₹20,000 as standard. He further criticised the allocation of ₹70 crore for new mobile phones and linked the Indigo Airlines crisis to the Union Government’s oversight on failures.
CPI(M) Central Committee member Rama Devi added that Dalit communities face harassment from belt shops, delayed cyclone compensation, and pressure on women over DWCRA loans, citing cases of extreme distress. She demanded immediate government action to resolve anganwadi issues, regulate belt shops, and protect women from harassment.
The party also called for urgent corrective measures to ensure equity, social justice, and protection for marginalised groups across the State.
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