Bharat’s AU Speech Twisted by YCP Social Media

GITAM University in Visakhapatnam is once again the target of a negative campaign, mainly pushed by YCP supporters on social media. A video of TDP MP Bharat, who is also the Managing Director of GITAM and the grandson of GITAM’s founder Dr. MVVS Murthy, is being shared widely with misleading commentary.

In the video, Bharat was speaking to students and staff at Andhra University. He addressed the ongoing political narrative that accuses him of trying to harm Andhra University to benefit GITAM. He clearly said, “They accused me of trying to destroy Andhra University to help GITAM grow. But we serve different groups. Andhra University offers affordable education to economically weaker students. GITAM has a higher fee structure and serves a different student base.”

He even praised Andhra University for having about 95% merit-based students, while GITAM has over 50% merit students. His statements were balanced and based on facts.

However, some YSRCP-affiliated accounts twisted his words. They falsely claimed that Bharat insulted poor students by saying only rich people go to GITAM, creating an unnecessary class conflict between the two universities. In truth, Bharat was simply explaining the differences between both institutions to shut down these political accusations.

This is not the first time GITAM has faced such issues. In 2020, when Jagan was CM, government officials claimed GITAM had built on about 40 acres of government land. They demolished some structures, although GITAM always denied any wrongdoing. Many believed it was a political move, especially since the university is linked to TDP leaders.

Sadly, this shows how even education can become a political target in Andhra Pradesh. Instead of focusing on real issues, some groups are spreading false narratives to push their agendas.