Date: July 16, 2024

KTR Raises Alarm on Protocol Violations by Congress Government

K.T. Rama Rao, working president of BRS, has penned a poignant letter to Speaker Gaddam Prasad, shedding light on what he perceives as systematic protocol violations by the Congress-led government in Telangana. In his open letter, Rama Rao highlights instances where opposition MLAs, particularly from BRS, have faced infringements on their rights and protocol.(https://youtu.be/zi4kGiT-dPU?si=Rb3CoEpDgNRKxcda)

Details of the Letter

Rama Rao expressed deep concern over what he describes as a deliberate effort by the Congress government to undermine the protocol and rights of BRS MLAs since assuming power. He condemned the mistreatment of former Minister P. Sabitha Indra Reddy, emphasizing the need for the Speaker to intervene and uphold the dignity of elected representatives.

Allegations and Instances

According to Rama Rao, the Congress government’s actions include sidelining opposition MLAs during welfare scheme distributions and developmental events in constituencies where ruling party MLAs are absent. He pointed out instances in Huzurabad, Maheshwaram, and Asifabad where local elected representatives were allegedly excluded from significant government functions.

Concerns for Democracy

The BRS leader underscored the broader implications of such actions, labeling them as unconstitutional and detrimental to democratic principles. He criticized the trend of appointing defeated Congress candidates or party leaders in lieu of elected opposition representatives at official events, which he believes undermines the democratic process.

Appeal to the Speaker

In his plea to Speaker Gaddam Prasad, Rama Rao urged immediate intervention to rectify these violations and restore the integrity of legislative protocols. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding the rights of all MLAs, irrespective of their party affiliations, as a cornerstone of democratic governance in the state.

Conclusion

As the debate intensifies over alleged protocol breaches and partisan treatment, K.T. Rama Rao’s letter serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing opposition lawmakers in maintaining their constitutional roles and responsibilities. The outcome of this plea to the Speaker remains uncertain, but its implications resonate widely in the political landscape of Telangana.

This development underscores ongoing tensions between the ruling Congress and opposition BRS, highlighting broader concerns over democratic norms and governance in the state.