Row over criticism of YSR

Hyderabad, February 15: Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy has advised his Cabinet colleagues to observe restraint in criticising late Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy as the government was committed to implementing the spree of welfare programmes launched by him.

He is understood to have given this advice when an argument broke out between Health Minister D.L. Ravindra Reddy and Tourism Minister Vatti Vasanta Kumar at Cabinet meeting here on Monday. Mr. Vasanta Kumar, according to sources, expressed concern over the frequent criticism of YSR though he was the brain behind the welfare programmes like 104, Arogyasri and others.

He reportedly asked his colleagues to refrain from criticising YSR to counter the onslaught launched against the ruling party by former MP Y.S. Jaganmohan Reddy. Dr. Ravindra Reddy, a YSR-baiter, objected to the remarks claiming that he had never criticised the schemes, but merely expressed his views on the need to further strengthen the ‘104' services in rural areas.

When some Ministers pointed out Mr. Jagan's proposed dharna on February 18 seeking release of funds for fee reimbursement to students, Finance Minister Anam Ramnarayan Reddy said that the ruling party was prepared to counter the campaign launched against the government by Mr. Jagan who is “like any other Opposition party leader now”.

Transport Minister Botcha Satyanarayana, who intervened at this point, is understood to have expressed concern over the different views being expressed on the fee reimbursement scheme.

The government could not go back on its commitment to reimburse fee for students without losing reputation among the people.

Therefore, no effort should be spared to avoid delay in release of funds.

The Cabinet reportedly discussed the likely impact of the non-cooperation movement proposed to be launched by Telangana joint action committee of employees, teachers and workers. Mr. Kiran briefed Ministers about the Cabinet sub-committee's talks with the employees and expressed hope that the issue would be resolved soon.

The separate Telangana issue was not under the purview of the State government and the Cabinet had reiterated its stand on abiding by any decision of the Centre.