TPN, Visakhapatnam: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed astonishment and disbelief during his inspection of the Rushikonda Palace in Visakhapatnam, describing the opulence as “unimaginable” and suggesting it is indicative of selfishness among the previous government’s leaders.
Speaking at a subsequent media conference, Naidu remarked on the extravagant nature of the buildings, stating, “I have traveled to many countries, but I have never seen such luxury.” He noted that the previous administration had claimed the structures were intended for tourism development; however, he questioned why dignitaries from Delhi prefer to stay at the Navy guest house instead.
The Chief Minister revealed alarming details about the expenditures associated with the Rushikonda buildings, highlighting that ₹36 lakhs were allocated for a single bathtub and emphasizing the lavish conference facilities, including a 300-person capacity hall. “I don’t think even kings would build offices like this,” he asserted, contrasting the grandeur of the structures with the simpler design of the American White House and Rashtrapati Bhavan in India.
Naidu criticized the extensive amenities provided, including a 100 KV substation, central air conditioning, and rooms for personal assistants, calling it a display of excess that violates ethical and legal standards. He described the spending as “like good water,” lamenting that it was not the leaders’ personal funds but rather public money that was squandered.
He warned that if a thorough investigation were to occur, many would be implicated. Naidu characterized the individuals behind the project as “hardened criminals,” advocating for a dialogue on whether such figures should remain in politics. “They build such luxurious buildings in the name of the poor,” he asserted, urging the need for accountability and integrity in governance.