Minister Malladi speaks in favour of Statehood for Puducherry for the first time
Minister Malladi Krishna Rao has publicly supported statehood for Puducherry for the first time, citing potential financial benefits from Finance Commission devolution. He emphasized that the interests of the enclaves of Karaikal, Yanam, and Mahe must be protected during any transition.
Why it matters
The shift in stance by a long-term legislator highlights the evolving political discourse regarding the administrative status and fiscal autonomy of Union Territories in India.
Minister for Public Works Malladi Krishna Rao has for the first time extended support for Puducherry’s Statehood demand in the Assembly.
The Minister, who represents Yanam region situated in the delta of Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh for the sixth time, has always taken an opposite stand on the demand for Statehood during his long career as a legislator and Minister of the Union Territory.
He made the remark welcoming Statehood for the first time on Monday during his reply to the demand for grants pertaining to the departments he handles in the AINRC-BJP Cabinet. Mr. Rao, who belongs to the AINRC, said he had earlier objected to the Statehood demand due to apprehensions over getting Central assistance and maintaining the status of Yanam as a part of Puducherry.
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