In a scathing attack on Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, YSR Congress Party MLA Tatiparthi Chandrashekar expressed his outrage over the increasing atrocities against women in the state. Speaking to the media at the party’s central office in Tadepalli on Wednesday, he criticized the Chief Minister for his apparent indifference towards a woman from the Railway Koduru constituency who had been wronged by Janasena MLA Arav Sridhar.
Chandrashekar highlighted that despite the victim approaching Chandrababu to lodge a complaint, her grievances were ignored, which he termed as a reprehensible act. He questioned, “Is this the value you place on women, Babu? When a woman comes to you pleading for justice against harassment by your MLA, how can you choose to remain silent?” The MLA’s remarks underscored a growing frustration regarding the administration’s handling of women’s safety and rights.
The backdrop of his comments points to a troubling narrative surrounding governance in the state, which he described as a “Keetchaka” regime, referring to the legendary character known for his tyranny. He cited alarming statistics, noting three murders and six incidents of sexual assault, asking rhetorically, “Is this the state of governance you are proud of?” He lamented that the administration appeared to be sidestepping serious issues while focusing instead on trivial pursuits.
Chandrashekar’s criticisms extended to the Home Ministry, which he accused of failing in its fundamental duty to ensure safety and uphold the law. He stated, “They have transformed the Home Department into a ‘Work From Home’ department, neglecting their core responsibilities.” He also questioned the government’s commitment to justice, especially when it concerns women’s issues, urging a more proactive approach to tackle such grievances.
The MLA recounted how, during the Sankranti festival, the victim personally approached the Chief Minister in Naravari Palle to file her complaint against Arav Sridhar, but her pleas went unheard. “How can a Chief Minister behave this way in matters concerning a married woman’s life?” he asked, reflecting the sentiments of many who feel that the administration is not adequately addressing violence against women.
Furthermore, he pointed out instances where the government has failed to act, such as the case involving Amadalavalasa MLA Kuna Ravi Kumar, suggesting a pattern of negligence. He asserted that Chandrababu, as both Chief Minister and leader of the TDP, should feel ashamed of his administration’s performance.
Chandrashekar also expressed solidarity with the victim, vowing that the YSR Congress Party would stand by her side in her pursuit of justice. He emphasized that if the Chief Minister fails to respond, the opposition will be her support. “Immediate action must be taken regarding the Railway Koduru incident to ensure justice for the victim,” he demanded, signaling a call to action for the government to address the pressing issues surrounding women’s safety in Andhra Pradesh.
