Komatireddy Venkat Reddy Slams False Campaigns, Seeks Probe Into Media Reports
“Stop the False Campaigns”: Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy Hits Back at Rumours, Media Sensationalism
Hyderabad: Telangana Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy on Saturday strongly denounced what he described as a malicious and irresponsible media campaign targeting him and senior women IAS officers, warning against the spread of baseless allegations for the sake of views and ratings.
Speaking to the media in Hyderabad, the minister expressed deep anguish over the nature of recent reports, saying such narratives amounted to character assassination rather than journalism. “If the anger against me has not subsided, then give me poison and kill me,” he said emotionally, underscoring the personal toll of what he called relentless false propaganda.
Call to End False Narratives Against Women Officers
Komatireddy specifically objected to reports linking him with a woman IAS officer, calling them completely untrue and deeply damaging. He urged media houses to immediately stop spreading unfounded stories about women officers, reminding them that IAS officials earn their positions through years of hard work and integrity.
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“Women IAS officers have families. Publishing false stories about them is not just unethical, it is cruel,” he said. He also clarified that ministers do not have the authority to transfer IAS officers, noting that such decisions are taken by the Chief Minister.
Demand for Probe Into Who Is Behind the Campaign
The minister said similar false campaigns had earlier targeted the Chief Minister as well. To uncover the truth behind these allegations, he stated that he had requested the Director General of Police to conduct an inquiry into who was orchestrating the misinformation. “Once the report comes, appropriate action will be taken,” he assured.
‘Views and Ratings Over Responsibility’
Komatireddy accused sections of the media of abandoning journalistic responsibility in pursuit of clicks and ratings. He stressed that political criticism was acceptable, but personal attacks and character assassination crossed a red line.
“There can be criticism in politics, but dragging individuals and their families into baseless controversies is unacceptable,” he said, appealing for restraint and accountability.
No Longer Engaging With the Film Industry
The minister also made it clear that he had stepped away from matters related to the film industry. He revealed that he had already informed producers not to approach him regarding benefit shows or ticket price hikes, particularly after the release of Pushpa-2.
“After I clearly told them not to come to me for benefit shows or ticket rate hikes, no one is approaching me anymore. Even applications are not being submitted,” he said, adding that no pending or upcoming film files were with him.
Personal Loss and Shift in Priorities
In a rare personal reflection, Komatireddy spoke about the profound impact of losing his son. “I felt half-dead the day my son passed away,” he said quietly. Since then, he explained, his focus has shifted more toward public service and social welfare activities rather than active political maneuvering.
He reiterated his appeal to protect the dignity and self-respect of women IAS officers and urged media organisations to avoid publishing unverified reports that harm families and reputations.
Concluding his remarks, the minister said he would also raise the issue with the Chief Minister, seeking a thorough inquiry into the entire episode. “Those who have done wrong will face consequences,” he said, adding that while politics may invite criticism, humanity and responsibility should never be abandoned.
