Former minister Seediri Appalaraju launched sharp criticism against the coalition government during a visit to diarrhoea-affected areas in Srikakulam district. He alleged that the government was trying to downplay the number of deaths and escape responsibility for the outbreak.
Senior leaders, including Dharmana Prasada Rao, YSRCP district president Dharmana Krishna Das, and Dr Seediri Appalaraju, who also heads the party’s doctors’ wing, visited the affected localities. They inspected Dammalaveedhi, Kandraveedhi, and Gudiveedhi areas, where several diarrhoea cases were reported in recent days.
During the visit, the leaders interacted with families of the deceased and gathered details about the ground reality. According to Appalaraju, at least four people died due to diarrhoea in the same locality. However, he accused the government of officially acknowledging only one death as a diarrhoea case.
He termed it “shameful” that while four people reportedly lost their lives, the administration recognised just one case and announced ₹10 lakh compensation to that family. “If four people die in a single area due to diarrhoea, how can the government deny the seriousness of the situation?” he questioned.
Furthermore, Appalaraju alleged that authorities failed to take action against health staff and doctors responsible for monitoring sanitation and disease control. Instead of fixing accountability, he claimed the government was trying to avoid criticism.
The former minister demanded a transparent inquiry into the outbreak. He also urged the government to provide adequate medical camps, safe drinking water, and sanitation measures to prevent further spread. Moreover, he insisted that all affected families should receive proper compensation.
The diarrhoea outbreak has created panic among residents in several parts of Srikakulam town. Locals are demanding immediate intervention, improved hygiene measures, and strict monitoring from health officials.
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