A Bold Demand at Mahanadu Sabha

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has reignited a national debate by urging the Central Government to withdraw ₹500 and higher denomination notes. Speaking at the Telugu Desam Party’s (TDP) Mahanadu Sabha in YSR Kadapa district, Naidu argued that banning these notes would strike at the heart of financial corruption and push India further toward a transparent, digital economy.

Curbing Corruption Through Currency Reform

Naidu justified his proposal by pointing out that high-value currency fuels black money, bribery, and untraceable transactions. “If we remove the ₹500, ₹1,000 and ₹2,000 notes, corruption becomes difficult. Every rupee becomes traceable in a digital system,” he asserted.

He revealed that this is not a new idea. Naidu had earlier submitted a digital currency reform report to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the removal of large notes and encouraging digital payment systems. “I suggested this to the Prime Minister. We need bold reforms if we are to eliminate corruption at its roots,” he said.

Digital Payments: The Path Forward

Highlighting how digital transactions are inherently transparent, Naidu said India's future lies in cashless governance. From political donations to routine public transactions, digital tools like QR codes, UPI, and mobile wallets create a clear, trackable financial trail.

“Our party has already adopted digital donations—people can contribute with a QR code. No need for bags of ₹500 and ₹2,000 notes,” Naidu explained. He believes that widespread adoption of digital finance will empower citizens, reduce tax evasion, and break entrenched systems of cash-based corruption.

A Call for National Consensus

Naidu’s remarks drew loud cheers and applause from TDP cadres, who stood in solidarity with the proposal. Calling for public and political unity, he urged the nation to rise above partisan lines to support the move.

“This isn’t about one party. It’s about clean governance, and we need the people's backing. Raise your hands if you agree,” Naidu said, as supporters responded enthusiastically.

A Currency for a Cleaner Future

Naidu’s call to ban high-value notes may be controversial, but it addresses a critical question: Can India combat corruption without changing how money flows? As the country leans into digital finance, this bold suggestion pushes the conversation further. Whether the Centre acts remains to be seen—but the debate is now front and center.

(With agency inputs)