Thu Feb 20 04:37:06 UTC 2025: ## North Andhra Seeks Rajya Sabha Representation After Reddy’s Resignation
**Vizianagaram/Srikakulam, February 20, 2025** – The resignation of YSRCP leader V. Vijayasai Reddy from the Rajya Sabha has sparked calls for the North Andhra districts of Vizianagaram and Srikakulam to finally receive representation in the Upper House. A study by academics and political experts reveals that the region has been without a Rajya Sabha member for 25 years, since Cheepurupalli MLA Kala Venkata Rao’s tenure ended in 1998.
This prolonged absence has prompted demands for the NDA government to allocate the vacated seat to a leader from the backward districts. Experts argue that Rajya Sabha representation would allow a dedicated voice to advocate for crucial regional issues such as the Vamsadhara phase-2 project and the Uddanam kidney disease problem.
Dr. Gunta Leela Vara Prasad, an Assistant Professor at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University, emphasized the importance of Rajya Sabha’s extended debate time for addressing such concerns. Local leaders echo this sentiment, citing years of neglect by successive governments regardless of party affiliation. Bhisetti Babji, President of Vizianagaram Zilla Powra Vedika, urged the Chandrababu Naidu-led government to rectify this historical injustice.
The issue extends beyond Vizianagaram and Srikakulam. Golivi Appala Naidu, Vice President of the Andhra Pradesh Intellectuals Forum, highlighted the similar neglect of Visakhapatnam district in Rajya Sabha representation over the past 15 years. He criticized the trend of selecting influential individuals and businesspersons for Rajya Sabha seats, advocating instead for candidates who might not otherwise be able to afford Lok Sabha campaigns, in line with the original intent of the Constitution makers. The call is now for the government to address the longstanding imbalance and ensure North Andhra’s voice is heard in the Rajya Sabha.
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