Capital – Amaravati to Be Declared Sole Andhra Pradesh Capital Through Bill
Capital – A significant legislative step is set to take place in Parliament as the Union government prepares to introduce a Bill in the Lok Sabha aimed at formally designating Amaravati as the only capital of Andhra Pradesh. The proposed amendment seeks to bring clarity to an issue that has remained politically and administratively sensitive since the state’s bifurcation in 2014.
Bill Seeks Amendment to 2014 Reorganisation Law
The proposed legislation, titled the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill, 2026, intends to revise provisions of the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. Specifically, it aims to modify Section 5(2) of the Act to explicitly mention Amaravati as the state’s capital. The existing phrase “there shall be a new capital” will be replaced with a clear reference naming Amaravati.
According to the draft, the definition of Amaravati will include all areas officially notified under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority Act, 2014. This clarification is expected to remove any ambiguity regarding the geographical scope of the capital region.
Retrospective Effect from June 2024
One of the notable aspects of the amendment is its retrospective applicability. The changes, once approved, will be considered effective from June 2, 2024. This provision appears designed to align legal recognition with administrative developments that have already taken place over the past year.
The move is expected to strengthen the legal framework surrounding the state’s capital and ensure consistency in governance and planning.
Assembly Resolution Prompted Legislative Move
The introduction of this Bill follows a formal resolution passed by the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on March 28, 2026. In that resolution, the state government urged the Centre to amend the existing law and officially recognise Amaravati as the sole capital.
The resolution was adopted during a special session and reflects the policy direction of the current state administration. It also aligns with earlier commitments made by the ruling alliance in Andhra Pradesh.
Recommendations Based on Judicial Guidance
The Assembly’s resolution incorporated suggestions based on observations made by the High Court in its order dated March 3, 2022. The court had advised clarity in legal provisions related to the capital.
As part of this, the resolution recommended inserting the phrase “at Amaravati” into Section 5(2) and expanding the explanation clause to clearly define the capital region. These changes are now being translated into legislative action at the national level.
Formal Communication to Central Authorities
Following the passage of the resolution, Assembly Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu formally communicated the decision to key authorities, including the Rajya Sabha Chairman, the Lok Sabha Speaker, the Union Home Minister, and senior officials in the Union Home Ministry. The Chief Secretary of Andhra Pradesh was also notified.
This coordinated approach indicates the state government’s intent to expedite the process and secure formal approval from Parliament.
Aim to Provide Administrative Clarity
The primary objective of the amendment is to eliminate uncertainty surrounding the capital status of Andhra Pradesh. Over the years, differing proposals regarding multiple capitals had created confusion in governance and development planning.
By legally establishing Amaravati as the sole capital, the government aims to ensure stability in administrative functioning and facilitate long-term infrastructure development in the region.
The Bill’s introduction in the Lok Sabha marks a crucial step in this direction. Its passage would provide statutory backing to the state’s capital framework and align it with current governance priorities.