6. Political Journey: Amaravati and the Andhra Pradesh Capital Debate

Amaravati’s journey as the capital of Andhra Pradesh has been marked by intense political debate and shifting government priorities. After the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, Hyderabad was designated as the joint capital for both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana for ten years. However, Andhra Pradesh needed a new capital, and Amaravati was chosen due to its central location and historical significance. The decision sparked optimism, leading to ambitious plans and large-scale land pooling. However, a change in state government in 2019 led to a proposal for a “three-capital” model, distributing executive, legislative, and judicial functions among Amaravati, Visakhapatnam, and Kurnool. This move triggered widespread protests from farmers and residents who had given up land for Amaravati’s development, as well as legal challenges in the courts. The debate over the capital’s location became a symbol of regional aspirations and political rivalry. As of 2024, the Supreme Court is involved in resolving the dispute, and the future of Amaravati as the sole capital remains uncertain. This ongoing saga highlights the complex interplay of politics, public sentiment, and regional development in shaping the destiny of Andhra Pradesh’s capital city.