Andhra Minister assures HC bench within 6 months in Kurnool

Kurnool: Industries minister T.G. Bharath announced on Thursday that the site survey for establishing a High Court Bench in Kurnool is underway, predicting that the process will be completed within six months.

He dismissed rumours about the shifting of the High Court, clarifying that TD chief N. Chandrababu Naidu had already assured the establishment of a HC Bench in the city, which requires time and approvals at various levels. He accused the YSRC of spreading false information and misleading the public on the matter.

The minister emphasised that legal institutions like the AP State Human Rights Commission and Lokayukta would remain in Kurnool, with no plans to relocate them to Amaravati. He highlighted that the demand for a High Court Bench in Rayalaseema aligns with the Sribagh Pact, a long-standing agreement advocating equitable development in the region.

Bharath criticised the previous YSRC government for failing to implement its three-capital proposal and for making empty announcements without initiating the official process to establish Kurnool as a judicial hub.

Minister Bharath assured that the establishment of a High Court Bench would significantly benefit Kurnool and its surroundings, fostering development in sectors like real estate, hospitality, small businesses and the legal profession. He noted that the Bench would also reduce the financial burden on people travelling to the capital region for court-related matters.

While the identification of suitable land for the Bench is still underway, Bharath stated that a temporary building would be arranged if the process is completed within the promised timeframe. He added that the infrastructure for the Bench might take more time to develop fully. The minister expressed satisfaction that the announcement has brought optimism among the people, fulfilling their long-standing demand for judicial facilities in the region.

He stated that his priorities include job creation through the establishment of industries, addressing traffic, water and drainage issues in the city on a permanent basis, and enhancing the infrastructure at the Government General Hospital to bring it on par with corporate hospitals.