Date:08/01/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/01/08/stories/2008010855720600.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Raghavulu asks State to change budget priorities

Staff Reporter

Rajahmundry: CPI(M) State secretary B.V. Raghavulu has asked the State government to change its budget priorities to benefit SC, ST and minorities.

He says that though his party is not against construction of projects under Jalayagnam, the very purpose of it has been defeated and it has failed to reach the specified targets.

Addressing a press conference on Monday, Mr Raghavulu said that State government should give priority to education, health and welfare sectors, which were neglected in the past three budgets.

He said that the government had not spent sub-plan funds on SC and STs and out of 18 per cent funds allotted for SC welfare, it had spent only 4 per cent.

State faulted

He said that the CAG report had found fault with the State on welfare front and also health sectors. The CPI(M) leader demanded allotment of sub-plan funds for the minorities also. The State government should establish a backward areas and districts development fund.

Mr. Raghavulu said CPI(M) would launch campaign for smooth conduct of Assembly sessions and take up joint agitations with CPI in April on land struggle and other issues.

Replying to queries, he said that they had not invited or pressured film star Chiranjeevi to join politics.