Ayyanna slams Jagan’s ‘lack of courtesy’

After assuming charge as the Speaker of the Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Chintakayala Ayyanna Patrudu made some surprising comments. The Speaker criticised former chief minister Jagan Mohan Reddy, stating he lacked courtesy towards the House and had never encountered such a leader in his political career. He emphasised the tradition that the Opposition should be present during the election of the Speaker.
Patrudu mentioned that Legislative Affairs Minister Payyavula Keshav and other party leaders had informed the YSRCP leaders the previous day. Despite this, the absence of Jagan and his MLAs during today’s sessions was a sign of their respect towards the House. The Speaker urged them to attend the Assembly, respect its traditions, and raise public issues within the House.
He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the dignity of the Assembly, contrasting the current situation with what he described as the previous government’s behaviour, likening it to the “Kaurava Sabha.” He expressed confidence that with the cooperation of all members, the sessions would run smoothly and uphold the Assembly’s respect.
Ayyanna Patrudu announced the lifting of bans on certain media houses imposed by the previous government, asserting that these bans had infringed on press freedom. He clarified that the bans were removed after the NDA government came to power.
The Speaker underscored the responsibility of his position and promised to perform his duties efficiently, enhancing the House’s respect. He recalled the day Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu shed tears in the House, marking the beginning of YSRCP’s decline, leading to their reduction from aiming for “Why Not 175” to securing only 11 seats, excluding them from opposition status. Despite this, Naidu acted generously when YSRCP leaders sought his support, according to Patrudu.