YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has once again stirred political controversy, this time over the massive Google AI Data Center project coming up in Visakhapatnam. The project, which carries a staggering 15 billion dollar investment, is being hailed as a landmark moment for India’s tech and AI future. But instead of celebrating the state’s big win, Jagan initiated a credit war.
After the project was officially announced by the current government, YSRCP leaders and their affiliated media outlets initially downplayed the development. Saakshi media and other YCP voices ran sarcastic reports, claiming that data centers don’t generate enough jobs to justify such large investments. Some YCP leaders even raised concerns about environmental issues, arguing that the facility could increase pollution in the coastal city. Their negative stand quickly drew sharp criticism from the public and tech experts, who pointed out the project’s long-term benefits for infrastructure, innovation, and employment.
“డేటా సెంటర్ విషయంలో చంద్రబాబు క్రెడిట్ చోరీ చేస్తున్నాడు.గూగుల్ డేటా సెంటర్ రావడానికి ముందు డేటా వైజాగ్ కు రావాలి కదా.ఆ డేటా కేబుల్ ను సింగపూర్ నుండి ఇక్కడికి తీసుకొచ్చింది వైసీపీ ప్రభుత్వమే.”– #YsJagan pic.twitter.com/iqtvLGtDLK— FilmShlim (@FilmShlimOfficial) November 6, 2025
Realizing the backlash, Jagan and his party have now changed their tone. In a recent media interaction, Jagan claimed that the groundwork for the Google data center was actually laid during his rule, asserting that it was his administration that facilitated land allocation and connectivity for the project. He further argued that his government had initiated discussions that later led to Google’s partnership with Adani.
However, TDP leaders have strongly dismissed Jagan’s claims. They argue that the credit rightfully belongs to Chandrababu Naidu, who has long been recognized for his vision in promoting technology and attracting global companies to Andhra Pradesh. According to TDP sources, Naidu’s credibility and international relationships played a key role in convincing Google to invest in Visakhapatnam.
They also point out that during Jagan’s tenure, industrial growth slowed and investor confidence weakened due to political instability and policy uncertainty. In contrast, Naidu’s return to power has revived optimism among investors, leading to landmark deals like this one.
The Google AI Data Center is not just a major technological project but also a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s growing importance in the global tech ecosystem. Yet, instead of celebrating this success, it has become another political flashpoint. With Jagan now trying to rewrite the narrative, the question remains—who will truly win the credit battle over one of India’s biggest AI investments?
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