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Andhra Pradesh High Court Dismisses PIL on Anna Canteen Colors as Politically Motivated

  • 17 Oct 2024 11:18 AM
  • Andhra Pradesh High Court, Anna Canteens

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has ruled that a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) questioning the colors of Anna Canteen buildings is likely politically motivated. The Anna Canteens, established to provide affordable meals, have featured yellow and red colors since their inception, and there have been no recent changes to this scheme. The PIL was filed by Chandrasekhar Reddy, former president of the AP NGO Association, who alleged that the TDP was imposing its party colors on these government-funded structures, while the government showed little concern.

During the hearing, Reddy's counsel, senior advocate Ponnavolu Sudhakar Reddy, argued that government buildings should remain free of political party colors. He reminded the court of past rulings that had held officials accountable for similar violations.

TDP leaders contended that the YCP was exploiting this issue as retaliation for a court reprimand regarding the use of YCP flag colors on government buildings. They emphasized that the yellow used in Anna Canteens is significant, not only representing the TDP but also symbolizing the sacred color of turmeric, commonly associated with auspiciousness in Indian culture.

The High Court judge acknowledged that Anna Canteens have consistently displayed the same colors, further indicating that the PIL from YCP leaders appears to be politically motivated.

The court has adjourned the hearing on this PIL, which will be revisited in six weeks.