Hyderabad: BRS MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy raised objections in the Assembly, claiming that the latest budget neglects the welfare of auto drivers. During the budget discussion, Reddy highlighted the challenges women face with free bus facilities and requested an increase in the number of buses.
Minister of Panchayat Raj Department, Sitakka, disagreed with Reddy’s remarks, accusing Bharasa leaders of hypocrisy by demanding more buses while expressing concern for auto drivers. She advised against politicizing the issue to provoke auto drivers.
Reddy’s comments that Minister Sitakka lacks knowledge about the process sparked uproar in the House. Sitakka responded, stating that unlike Reddy, she does not harbor evil thoughts or arrogant knowledge.
Assembly Affairs Minister Sridhar Babu and Government Whip Adi Srinivas demanded an apology from Reddy for his remarks against the woman minister. Prasad Kumar criticized Reddy’s confrontational approach, deeming it inappropriate to address a woman minister in such a manner.
Kaushik Reddy withdrew his comments, clarifying that he had no ill intentions and was focused on protecting auto drivers. He also questioned the online tender process for automatic ticket machines in RTC and held the Transport Minister accountable for lorries operating with overloads.
