Harish Rao Seeks Probe into Minister, Targets CM
BRS Leader Harish Rao Demands Probe, Challenges CM Revanth Reddy
Allegations over the minister and the demand for an independent inquiry
BRS Legislature Party deputy leader and former minister Harish Rao has questioned the feasibility of a CB-CID inquiry into allegations involving Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy. He stated that when a sitting minister is under scrutiny, an investigation by agencies functioning under the government raises concerns.
Harish Rao demanded that the minister be dismissed or that the matter be handed over to a sitting judge. He also suggested constituting a House Committee if other options are not considered.
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Questions over the investigation process
Referring to statements made in the Assembly, Harish Rao said both the Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and the Mining Minister had acknowledged allegations related to the minister’s company. He questioned how a government-controlled agency could investigate a serving minister.
He alleged that the CB-CID inquiry was initiated to protect the minister and called for a transparent investigation mechanism.
Claims of evidence and financial irregularities
Harish Rao stated that the alleged irregularities involving the minister’s company were evident and had been discussed publicly. He claimed that financial losses to the state exchequer were apparent from available information.
He further alleged that multiple notices had been issued, including show-cause notices and penalty-related documents, and questioned how the minister claimed a lack of awareness.
Demand for a probe into multiple issues
The BRS leader challenged the Chief Minister to agree to an inquiry into several issues he listed, including civil supplies, tenders, mining-related activities, and land matters. He said a letter had been submitted seeking an investigation into what he described as multiple concerns.
He also questioned whether the government would agree to a House Committee or a judicial inquiry into these matters.
Criticism over Assembly proceedings
Harish Rao criticized the handling of Assembly proceedings, alleging that opposition members were not allowed to speak. He said referring MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy to the Ethics Committee was aimed at targeting dissent.
He further stated that if ethical standards were to be examined, the Chief Minister’s conduct in the Assembly should also be reviewed.
Concerns over administrative decisions
The former minister also raised issues regarding mining operations, permissions, and regulatory compliance. He alleged that certain companies were operating without required approvals and questioned enforcement actions.
He said multiple complaints had been submitted to authorities, including the Chief Secretary, Pollution Control Board, and vigilance agencies.
Call for clarity and accountability
Harish Rao reiterated his demand for a fair and independent inquiry, stating he was ready for any investigation into allegations against him or his family. He challenged the Chief Minister to agree to a similar process.
He maintained that the issue required clarity and accountability from the government.
Context
The statements were made during a media interaction at Telangana Bhavan in Hyderabad on March 29, where several BRS leaders were present.
