APCC chief Y S Sharmila asks CM Chandrababu Naidu to obtain a clear commitment from PM Modi ruling out privatisation of Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, criticises his remarks on worker efficiency.

Sharmila Calls on Naidu to Seek PM’s Commitment to Protect Vizag Steel Plant

In a sharp rebuttal to Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s recent comments on worker efficiency, APCC president Y S Sharmila has demanded that the CM secure a categorical assurance from Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP) will not be privatised. She further urged Naidu to press for its merger with Steel Authority of India Ltd (SAIL), arguing that the state must protect strategic public assets.

Sharmila’s statement comes days after Naidu remarked that VSP employees must not expect salaries “for free” without improving productivity. While Naidu reaffirmed that the plant would not be privatised “under any circumstances”, he claimed improvements were urgently needed and highlighted steps taken by his government—including converting ₹2,000 crore in unpaid power dues into equity and foregoing local taxes—to revive the plant’s financial position.

The CM described VSP as a “gold mine” capable of recovery with disciplined management and promised quarterly performance reviews to ensure viability.

However, Sharmila termed his remarks “insensitive” and accused him of undermining workers. She alleged that reducing workforce numbers and restricting access to raw materials had pushed the unit into distress, calling the comments “part of a larger plan to justify privatisation”.

Political observers believe the matter could become a major flashpoint in Andhra Pradesh, particularly as VSP remains a symbol of regional pride and employment support. Industrial workers’ sentiments, analysts say, will play a decisive role in shaping future political narratives.