Nellore, April 15, 2026: Former Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) president Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on Wednesday asserted that fishing harbours belong to fishermen and accused the ruling government of undermining the state’s blue economy by favouring private interests.
Addressing fishermen after visiting the Juvveladinne fishing harbour, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy questioned N. Chandrababu Naidu over the delay in handing over the harbour, completed during his tenure to the fishing community. He alleged that instead of empowering fishermen, the government had allotted land within the harbour premises to a private defence company, jeopardising livelihoods.
Although there is ample land available near Krishnapatnam port, yet land here was given away for commercial purposes raises serious questions on government prioritising private gains over public welfare.
“Harbours Meant for Fishermen, Not Corporates
Jagan emphasised that his government had envisioned a comprehensive plan to strengthen coastal infrastructure and the blue economy.“It was our government that planned four ports, ten fishing harbours, and six fish landing centres at a cost of ₹26,000 crore, securing all necessary permissions,” he said. “Juvveladinne harbour was completed and virtually dedicated in March 2024, but the formal inauguration was delayed due to the election code.”
He noted that while the project was later inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it has still not been handed over to fishermen, which he termed “deeply concerning.”
The allotment of harbour land to private entities indicates a gradual move toward privatisation.“This is taking away bread from the mouths of fishermen,” he said, adding that his party would reverse such decisions if voted back to power.
Promises to Fishermen
“We will dedicate all harbours to fishermen and strengthen the blue economy,”he assured. Reiterating welfare commitments, Jagan said his government had planned to provide 1,250 mechanised boats at 90% subsidy, benefiting over 25,000 families. This has significantly boosted incomes and livelihoods, but the current government has derailed these efforts.
Allegations on Law and Order
Jagan also raised concerns over enforcement issues, alleging that mechanized boats from Tamil Nadu were illegally entering Andhra waters.“Our fishermen intercepted and handed them over to police. But within days, the boats disappeared. There are serious questions about political interference,” he claimed. He alleged that the coalition government has “failed to deliver on its promises” and has halted welfare schemes introduced during his tenure.
