Video: Inside Jagan Mohan Reddy’s Controversial 'Palace' on Rushikonda Hill

New Delhi: The startling footage of former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s opulent interior nestled atop Rushikonda Hill accessed by Republic TV shows luxury items that have sparked widespread political scrutiny. Among the lavish items showcased in the video is a bathtub allegedly valued at a staggering 36 lakhs. Furthermore, a commode price claimed to be 3.5 lakhs and other royal pieces add to the spectacle of luxury within the palace walls.

Everything you need to know about the controversy 

In late 2021, the YSRCP government announced plans to transform the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC)-run Haritha resort on the hill into a tourist attraction. Following the announcement, a 9.88-acre area of the resort has been restricted from public access, with the YSRCP government citing ongoing development work. 

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has consistently raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the project, suggesting that there is unnecessary secrecy involved. Accusations of Misuse: 

The TDP has accused the YSRCP of using the redevelopment as a pretext to construct a luxurious residence, labeled a “Raj Mahal,” for Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy. TDP's national general secretary, Nara Lokesh, claims that Jagan Reddy intends to use the redeveloped resort exclusively as his camp office, with the project costing ₹500 crore from the state exchequer.  

Jagan Reddy's party refutes all claims 

However, a leader from Jagan Reddy's party refuted all claims that the former chief minister constructed a massive camp office using public money. "The property was intended to host the Prime Minister, President, and other dignitaries because Vizag was slated to become the capital city. It was not designed as a CM camp office," stated former industry minister G Amarnath.