Roja Remarks Trigger Fresh Political Debate
Former Andhra Pradesh minister R. K. Roja has sparked fresh political controversy with her comments on the alleged “Aadudam Andhra” sports kit scam during the previous YSR Congress Party government.
Roja, known as a firebrand leader in Andhra politics, indirectly acknowledged irregularities in the sports programme but denied any personal involvement in the purchase of allegedly low-quality sports kits. The programme, conducted between December 2023 and February 2024, has faced allegations of financial mismanagement and misuse of nearly Rs. 400 crore.
The former sports minister stated that officials were responsible for procurement decisions and claimed ministers were busy with political campaigns during that period. Her remarks have now intensified scrutiny on senior bureaucrats linked to the scheme, particularly IAS officer P.S. Pradyumna, who currently serves in the Chief Minister’s Office.
Political circles are debating whether the continued posting of officials connected to the case is delaying action in the investigation. Critics have questioned why no arrests have been made even two years after the coalition government came to power.
The controversy has once again brought the “Aadudam Andhra” case into the spotlight, with opposition leaders and political observers demanding a transparent vigilance probe and accountability from all those involved.
