YS Avinash Reddy has launched a large-scale campaign titled “Public Healthcare is a Right,” marking a strong stand against the proposed privatization of medical colleges in Andhra Pradesh. The initiative, which seeks to collect one crore signatures across the state, underscores the belief that quality healthcare and medical education are not privileges, but fundamental rights for every citizen.
Speaking at the launch event, Avinash Reddy reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding public institutions and ensuring that the state’s healthcare system remains inclusive and people-centric. “Healthcare and education form the backbone of a strong and equitable society. Privatization risks excluding large sections of our population from these essential services,” he said.
Engagement with Local Leadership and Committees
The campaign gained momentum during a meeting held with YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) village and ward committee members at the district headquarters. The session, chaired by Avinash Reddy, brought together district officials, MLAs, and municipal leaders to review the implementation of central and state welfare schemes while addressing concerns related to public health and education.
Collector Sridhar garu, MLAs Akepati Amarnath Reddy garu and Dasari Sudha garu, and Mayor Suresh Babu garu were among the key participants. The discussions focused on strengthening primary healthcare centers, improving access to affordable medical services in rural areas, and ensuring that government medical colleges continue to provide quality education at minimal cost.
Municipality In-Charge YS Manohar Reddy joined Avinash Reddy in emphasizing the importance of collective action at the grassroots level. “We must unite as a community to defend our public healthcare infrastructure. The one-crore signature campaign will serve as the people’s voice against privatization,” he noted.
A Stand for Accessible Healthcare
At the heart of the movement is a strong message: public healthcare is a right, not a commodity. Avinash Reddy’s campaign highlights the risks posed by privatization, particularly the potential for increased costs, reduced access for economically weaker sections, and a widening urban–rural healthcare gap.
The campaign aligns closely with the welfare vision of the YSR Congress Party, which has consistently prioritized healthcare accessibility through initiatives like Aarogyasri, Family Doctor Scheme, and the expansion of government hospitals. Avinash Reddy’s initiative complements these efforts by mobilizing citizens to actively participate in safeguarding their rights.
Public Response and Grassroots Mobilization
The movement has drawn wide support from across the district, with students, healthcare workers, and local organizations endorsing the campaign. Volunteers have been deployed to every mandal and ward to gather signatures and spread awareness about the implications of medical college privatization.
At the party office earlier in the day, Avinash Reddy interacted with local leaders and activists, emphasizing the importance of sustained public engagement. “Every signature represents a voice in defense of equality in healthcare and education. Together, we can ensure that Andhra Pradesh remains a state where public institutions thrive for the common good,” he stated.
Local committees were also urged to document community health challenges and share recommendations for improving service delivery. This participatory approach reflects Avinash Reddy’s governance philosophy empowering people to be active stakeholders in policy decisions that affect their lives.
Strengthening Public Systems for the Future
Beyond the immediate campaign, YS Avinash Reddy outlined a broader vision for Andhra Pradesh’s healthcare future. His focus includes upgrading medical infrastructure in district hospitals, expanding medical training facilities, and integrating technology into primary healthcare systems. The aim is to build a sustainable, affordable, and equitable public health network that serves both rural and urban populations.
He also reiterated that the government’s role is not just to regulate but to actively invest in public institutions that guarantee equal opportunity. “Our goal is not only to oppose privatization but to enhance the capacity and quality of public medical colleges so that they can compete globally while remaining accessible to every student,” Avinash Reddy emphasized.
