Andhra Pradesh CM Announces Potti Sriramulu Telugu University

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has announced the establishment of Potti Sriramulu Telugu University in the state. He declared that today is a day for all Telugus to take pride in. CM Naidu attended a program at Tummalapalle Kalakshetra in Vijayawada at 11 am today (Sunday) where he paid tribute to Potti Sriramulu on his 72nd death anniversary. He emphasized that the struggle waged by Potti Sriramulu for a separate state for the Telugu people from united Madras is unforgettable, stating that their identity as Telugus is rooted in Sriramulu's sacrifice.

Chandrababu praised Potti Sriramulu as an individual who fiercely advocated for the Telugu nation, achieving remarkable outcomes through his commitment and sacrifice. He highlighted that Sriramulu’s 58-day hunger strike was a pivotal moment in the establishment of Andhra Pradesh.

He noted the ongoing relevance of today's hunger strikes, pointing out that linguistic states were formed as a result of Sriramulu's sacrifices. Chandrababu lamented that it was disappointing that four individuals did not come to support Sriramulu during his struggle and remarked on the lack of backing from other leaders. Nevertheless, he acknowledged Sriramulu's achievements despite the loss of lives along the way.

Chandrababu commemorated the death anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel as well, praising Patel for his fight for national unity and his legacy as a monumental figure in Indian history.

He continued, “Our Telugu nation has faced numerous changes, alternating between division and unity. After 50 years of struggle and Potti Sriramulu's sacrifice, a linguistic state was finally established. Alluri Sitarama Raju united tribal communities and fought courageously, ultimately paying the price for his resistance. The Andhra Mahasabha was formed in 1913 to advocate for a Telugu state, with the belief that independence would come before the Tamils received theirs. This realization came true with the establishment of the Telugu state post-independence, marking a significant moment for our people who tirelessly campaigned for their rights.

Chandrababu emphasized that Potti Sriramulu was instrumental in the formation of the state and recalled the government's various responses at the time, including a temporary agreement declaring Kurnool as the capital and Guntur as the High Court. He mentioned the 1969 Jai Andhra movement advocating for Telangana.

Revealing key historical contributions, he stated, "The person who erected the statues of Telugu leaders on the Tank Bund was NTR." He further acknowledged NTR's founding of Potti Sriramulu University and renaming Nellore district in his honor. He condemned the neglect of these initiatives by subsequent governments, which even attempted to change the name of Potti Sriramulu University.

As part of the New Andhra state's formation, the government has pledged to honor Potti Sriramulu’s contributions, ensuring future generations are aware of his sacrifices. CM Chandrababu also reflected on the challenges the Telugu nation faced, asserting that they had transformed Hyderabad into a leading city. Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan also shared insights about past conditions and the development trajectory of the region.

Further recognizing significant contributors, he commended PV Narasimha Rao for implementing economic reforms that shifted the country’s direction. Despite NTR establishing a regional party, he significantly influenced national politics.

Chandrababu concluded by announcing the 2047 Vision Document, stating it serves as a roadmap for progress for every individual and region in Andhra Pradesh. He expressed optimism that this would lead to development across the state and for its people, assuring that better days are ahead for all, particularly the next generation.