Naidu refutes HAL relocation claims, says 'never sought to move any institution'

Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has categorically dismissed reports and political allegations suggesting that he sought the relocation of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) facility from Karnataka to Andhra Pradesh.

Speaking at the Mahanadu meeting in Kadapa, on Wednesday Naidu clarified that his appeal to the Centre was solely focused on establishing a defence manufacturing hub in Andhra Pradesh — not on shifting existing institutions from other states.

“I never asked for the HAL located in Bengaluru to be shifted to Andhra Pradesh. It’s a massive, strategic facility and such institutions can’t and shouldn’t be moved. I have never sought the relocation of any project from one region to another, and such an idea is not part of my history,” Naidu stated while addressing the gathering.

He emphasised that Lepakshi in Anantapur district is highly suitable for setting up aircraft manufacturing and defence-related industries. “I had earlier highlighted Lepakshi’s potential, but unfortunately, some politicians in Karnataka misunderstood this as an attempt to shift HAL to Andhra Pradesh,” he said.

Naidu reiterated that his intentions were focused on new development and investment. He had recently met Union Defence Minister Rajanath Singh to request the establishment of a defence manufacturing hub in Andhra Pradesh, especially in the Rayalaseema region.

“The Telugu Desam Party is synonymous with development. We never oppose progress, nor do we believe in taking away projects from other states,” he affirmed.