Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy criticised Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy's visit to meet an accused in a criminal case, alleging it was politically motivated and intended to divert attention from the government's development agenda.
Mangalagiri: Andhra Pradesh Housing and Information & Public Relations Minister Kolusu Parthasarathy on Monday strongly criticised YSRCP president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy over his visit to meet an accused in a criminal case, alleging that it was a politically motivated exercise aimed at diverting public attention from the NDA government's development agenda in North Andhra and the Prime Minister's scheduled visit to the region.
Addressing a press conference at the TDP Central Office in NTR Bhavan, Parthasarathy alleged that Jagan's visit was intended to support a person accused of attempting to destroy evidence following a road accident that claimed the life of a shepherd identified as Danayya.
The Minister questioned why the former Chief Minister chose to visit the accused instead of expressing sympathy to the victim's family. He alleged that the move reflected the YSRCP's attitude towards the poor and weaker sections of society.
Parthasarathy further alleged that violence and lawlessness had become a means of political recognition within the YSRCP. He claimed that individuals accused of intimidation and unlawful activities were rewarded by the party, sending a wrong message to society.
He also questioned Jagan's priorities, alleging that while he did not visit APCC president Y.S. Sharmila during her reported health issues, he travelled to meet an accused in a criminal case.
The Minister alleged that the YSRCP deliberately attempted to create tension ahead of the Prime Minister's visit to North Andhra. He said the State government had granted permission for Jagan's programme subject to security-related conditions, including limits on convoy size, restrictions on obstructing public roads and compliance with police instructions. According to him, YSRCP workers violated these conditions and caused disruptions.
Parthasarathy also condemned the alleged assault on a woman Sub-Inspector during the programme. Referring to television footage, he alleged that YSRCP workers attacked and surrounded the police officer while she was performing her duties. He demanded strict legal action against those responsible and said the law would take its course without political interference.
The Minister further alleged that the Opposition was attempting to divert public attention from the Prime Minister's visit, which he said would bring major infrastructure projects, an aviation university, Edu City, skill development initiatives and fresh investments to North Andhra.
Highlighting the government's response to the fatal accident, Parthasarathy said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had immediately directed officials to take strict action and announced Rs.10 lakh financial assistance from the Telugu Desam Party for the victim's family. He added that local TDP leaders had also extended support and that the local MLA had assured the family of a house under the Housing Department.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister urged people to reject what he described as politics based on violence and intimidation. He expressed confidence that the people of Andhra Pradesh would support development, peace and the rule of law.
