TDP Leader Demands Discussion on FTAs; Legal Status for Amravati

Speaking to the media in New Delhi after attending an all-party meeting, Devarayalu said such a law was essential to end the uncertainty created between 2014 and 2019 over the proposed three-capital model. He said the TD would seek detailed debates on several national and state-specific issues considering rapidly changing global and domestic developments.

Devarayalu called for a comprehensive discussion on India’s Free Trade Agreements with various countries, citing shifting geopolitical and economic realities. He said Parliament could consider a separate, exclusive debate on the issue, if required.

Raising concerns over the growing influence of digital platforms, the TD MP sought strict regulation of social media to protect children. He said Parliament should debate imposing a complete ban on social media access for children below 16 years, citing its adverse psychological and social impact.

On electoral and governance reforms, he referred to the proposed 130th Constitutional Amendment Bill and said the TD would demand provisions for disqualification from public office—including Prime Minister, Chief Minister and Minister—for individuals who have spent more than 30 days in jail or face criminal cases pending for over five years. He also urged that charge-sheeted persons be barred from contesting elections and that special courts be set up with strict timelines to dispose of such cases.

Focusing on Andhra Pradesh, Devarayalu said the TD would seek discussions on allocation of funds under the Purvodaya scheme to complete pending irrigation projects from North Andhra to Rayalaseema. Emphasising national water security, he called for a debate on interlinking of rivers and urged the Centre to actively pursue linkage of the Godavari, Krishna and Penna rivers in the state.

He further demanded the release of ₹26,000 crore under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Though the amount was earlier sanctioned, he alleged that only ₹2,000 crore was utilised between 2019 and 2024 due to the state government’s failure to provide its matching share, resulting in the funds being stalled.

The TD will also raise issues related to tobacco farmers and seek clarity on the Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Devarayalu said removing uncertainty over the Bill was essential to address trading and farmer-related concerns.