Andhra Pradesh Minister for Education and IT Nara Lokesh has reintroduced the APPSC Amendment Bill in the State Assembly. He said the main objective is to curb faction politics and support families affected by political violence.
Speaking in the House, Lokesh urged members to pass the bill without delay. He stated that justice for victims and long-term peace in the state remain the government’s top priorities.
Legislative Delay Brings Bill Back to Assembly
The amendment bill was first passed by the Assembly on September 27, 2025. It was then sent to the Legislative Council for approval. However, the Council did not introduce the bill within 100 days.
As per legislative procedure, the bill has now returned to the Assembly for re-approval. Lokesh said the government is determined to ensure that the reforms are implemented without further obstruction.
Fight Against Faction Politics Since 1996
Lokesh recalled that the campaign against factional violence began in 1996 under then Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He said the government at the time declared a firm stand against politically motivated killings.
He also alleged that after 2004, during the tenure of former Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, 164 workers of the Telugu Desam Party were killed. According to Lokesh, faction-related incidents continued between 2019 and 2024.
He stressed that such violence damages democracy and creates fear among grassroots political workers.
Support for Families of Victims
The minister said the government has taken steps to prevent children of deceased political workers from being drawn into factional cycles. He noted that several children are being provided with education at NTR Schools to secure their future.
Lokesh stated that education and employment are key to breaking the chain of revenge politics.
The Murder of Thota Chandraiah
Highlighting a specific case, Lokesh referred to the 2022 murder of Thota Chandraiah, a leader from the Backwards Classes community. He described the killing as politically motivated.
According to Lokesh, Chandraiah was attacked for his loyalty to the Telugu Desam Party. He claimed that even when threatened, Chandraiah refused to chant slogans in support of the YSRCP leadership. The minister said the incident shocked many across the state.
Job for Chandraiah’s Son
A major provision linked to the amendment bill is to provide a government job to Chandraiah’s son. Lokesh said alliance parties have agreed to extend this support to the bereaved family.
He added that offering employment to affected families would not only provide relief but also send a strong message that the state stands with victims of political violence.
Call for Assembly Support
Lokesh appealed to all members of the Assembly to pass the bill. He said the legislation is not about politics but about protecting democratic values.
He concluded by stating that the government remains committed to ending factionalism and ensuring justice for families who have suffered due to political rivalry in Andhra Pradesh.
