CongressLeader – KVP Rao Rejects Claims Against Former Chief Minister YSR
CongressLeader –Senior Congress leader KVP Ramachandra Rao has strongly objected to recent remarks made by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Jana Sena Party president Pawan Kalyan regarding former chief minister YS Rajasekhara Reddy. Rao said the allegations have caused distress among countless supporters who continue to respect and remember YSR years after his passing.
According to KVP, the accusations lack evidence and unfairly target a leader whose political legacy remains significant even nearly two decades after his death. He emphasized that YS Rajasekhara Reddy had no association with the YSR Congress Party, which was established after his demise, and rejected suggestions that the former chief minister had been involved in any effort against Pawan Kalyan during his tenure.
Demand for Evidence
Rao challenged the Deputy Chief Minister to provide proof for the statements made against YSR. He specifically asked Pawan Kalyan to identify the senior police officer who was reportedly cited as a source for the allegations. Stressing the need for accountability in public discourse, Rao said claims of such seriousness should be backed by verifiable facts rather than speculation.
He further stated that he was prepared to undergo a lie detector examination if necessary to establish the truth. Rao maintained that public figures should be cautious while making statements about leaders who are no longer alive to defend themselves.
Offer Linked to Verification
Taking his challenge a step further, KVP announced a financial commitment tied to the verification of the allegations. He said that if the police officer named by Pawan Kalyan confirms the charges against YSR, he and admirers of the former chief minister would collectively contribute ₹10 crore.
The amount, according to Rao, could be donated either to the Telangana Chief Minister’s Relief Fund or to any charitable organization selected by Pawan Kalyan. The proposal was presented as a demonstration of confidence in YSR’s reputation and a call for evidence-based political discussion.
Congress Responds to Separate Allegations
Meanwhile, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee Vice President Kolanukonda Shivaji also responded to comments directed at the Congress party. He dismissed allegations that Congress leaders from Telangana had intentionally encouraged regional divisions or sentiments for political purposes.
Shivaji argued that such accusations misrepresent the party’s position and historical role. He stated that political debates should focus on current governance issues rather than revisiting claims that, in his view, lack factual support.
Questions Raised Over BJP Criticism
During his remarks, Shivaji also questioned Pawan Kalyan’s stance on issues involving minority rights. He asked why the Jana Sena chief had not publicly criticized what he described as actions by the Bharatiya Janata Party that have drawn concern from sections of society.
The comments added another dimension to the ongoing political exchange, reflecting broader disagreements among parties over governance, public policy, and ideological positions. As the debate continues, leaders from different political camps are expected to defend their respective narratives while seeking public support ahead of future political developments.