Varla Ramaiah criticizes YSRCP members over disruptions

Varla Ramaiah accused YSRCP of showing disrespect to the Chairman and particularly criticized what he described as the alleged humiliation of a Dalit leader occupying the Chair

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Newly elected TDP MLC and senior party leader Varla Ramaiah described his first experience in the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Council as a nightmare, accusing YSRCP members of repeatedly disrupting proceedings and undermining the dignity of the Upper House. Speaking to the media at NTR Bhavan in Mangalagiri on Friday, Ramaiah said the Legislative Council should function as a forum for discussing public issues and scrutinizing legislation, but, he alleged, YSRCP members were resorting to slogans, placards and disorder.

Ramaiah thanked Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for nominating him to the Council under the Governor’s quota and Governor S. Abdul Nazeer for approving the appointment. He said his first scheduled day in the Council was adjourned, and he entered the House for the first time to participate in proceedings on Thursday. Recalling the experience, Ramaiah alleged that YSRCP members surrounded Chairman Moshen Raju, held placards in front of him, raised slogans and attempted to obstruct proceedings. 

He accused them of showing disrespect to the Chairman and particularly criticized what he described as the alleged humiliation of a Dalit leader occupying the Chair.

He further alleged that YSRCP members were acting with the encouragement of former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, claiming that some members recorded videos and selfies of their protests and shared them with the party leadership. He questioned whether disrupting legislative proceedings could be considered democratic conduct.

Ramaiah also accused YSRCP members of displaying hostility towards Minister Nara Lokesh and alleged that inappropriate gestures and behavior were being used inside the House for political confrontation. Referring to Articles 169 and 171 of the Constitution, he said the Legislative Council has an important role as a reviewing chamber, particularly in examining Bills passed by the Legislative Assembly and providing considered suggestions.

Turning the criticism into a broader political argument, Ramaiah said personal political rivalries should not be allowed to overwhelm legislative responsibilities. He urged all members to preserve the dignity of the Council and ensure that public issues and legislation remain at the center of its proceedings.