Is the Chandrababu government moving against Jagan? Did Jagan’s government misuse public funds? Was Sakshi newspaper purchased through quid pro quo? These questions were discussed in the Chandrababu cabinet meeting on Wednesday. Ministers have reportedly suggested an investigation to CM Chandrababu, hinting at further trouble for Jagan.
Former CM Jagan has been accused of wrongdoing. His government allegedly allocated ₹205 crore from the state treasury over two years for purchasing the Sakshi newspaper, specifically through volunteers who were given ₹200 per month for two years to subscribe to Sakshi.
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The total expenditure amounted to ₹205 crore, and only Sakshi was purchased, with no other newspapers allowed in the village and town secretariats set up by the previous YSRCP government. Furthermore, some municipalities were reportedly given a full year’s advance to purchase Sakshi.
Ministers argue this is an open case of quid pro quo, claiming Jagan’s government boosted the circulation of Sakshi by spending public money. Additionally, it was revealed that Sakshi received ₹440 crore in government advertisements over five years, raising suspicions about favoritism and improper use of public funds.
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This issue was discussed for over 30 minutes in Wednesday’s cabinet meeting, and an investigation seems imminent, with CM Chandrababu giving the green light. Over the past five years, the YSRCP government spent hundreds of crores on advertisements, with Sakshi alone receiving ₹403 crore. In comparison, 20 other newspapers received a combined ₹488 crore, making Sakshi the dominant recipient.
The Eenadu group has already filed a petition in court, challenging the preferential treatment given to Sakshi. Investigations into the matter have started, including a vigilance inquiry into former Commissioner of Public Relations Vijayakumar Reddy’s involvement. The Chandrababu government’s probe into this matter may reveal further details in the coming days.
