In a heated exchange, K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), the working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), criticized the recent decision made by the Assembly Speaker regarding petitions filed against party defectors. He described the ruling as extremely undemocratic and appalling, asserting that the dismissal of the petitions was influenced by pressure from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.
KTR alleged that the Speaker, Prasad Kumar, acted under severe duress from Gandhi, who he accused of orchestrating a game that undermines democratic principles. The BRS leader condemned the unethical practices purportedly employed by Congress to facilitate defections, claiming that these actions are a direct attack on the integrity of the Constitution and democracy in India.
During a media briefing at Telangana Bhavan, KTR labeled Rahul Gandhi as the “mastermind” behind party defections, emphasizing that the Speaker lacks the authority to make such decisions without proper consent. He demanded that Gandhi address the implications of the Speaker’s ruling, insisting that it left him looking foolish and undermined his previous commitments to uphold party integrity.
KTR’s comments were made in the presence of former ministers and prominent party figures who echoed his sentiments. He called for a legal framework that would automatically revoke membership for those who engage in party-switching, demanding accountability from Gandhi and the Congress party.
Addressing ongoing issues in Khammam district, KTR vowed to raise questions in both houses of the Assembly regarding the demolition of houses in the Velugumatla area. He expressed outrage at reports of land mafia activities allegedly led by three ministers from the region, claiming they were victimizing the poor and exacerbating their hardships.
He condemned the treatment of affected individuals, describing them as victims who are being dismissed as “paid artists” while their homes are demolished. KTR also criticized the police for allegedly targeting victims rather than addressing the wrongdoing of the ministers involved.
In a sarcastic tone, KTR questioned the legitimacy of the Speaker’s decision, suggesting that anyone who can win elections without resigning from their party should be publicly honored. He emphasized that all evidence is available for public scrutiny and questioned the Congress party’s right to discuss the issue of defections in light of this situation.
KTR concluded by ridiculing remarks made by party leaders like Danam Nagender and Kadium Srihari, suggesting that their comments on defection culture are laughable. He urged them to reflect on their own positions within the BRS and the integrity of their statements regarding party loyalty.
