Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s Sharp Critique: BRS’s Democratic Values Questioned

HYDERABAD: Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has openly criticized the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leadership, questioning their adherence to democratic principles in light of recent events. Addressing the media, Prabhakar highlighted past incidents where BRS members allegedly disrupted legislative proceedings without facing internal censure. He recalled an occasion when BRS members threw papers at the Chairman of the Legislative Council, leading to suspensions, yet the party did not reflect on democratic norms at that time.

Prabhakar emphasized the sanctity of legislative bodies, stating that while the Chief Minister leads the government, the Speaker presides over the assembly. He condemned the recent remarks directed at the Speaker, interpreting them as violations of legislative privileges. Specifically, he referred to comments suggesting the assembly does not belong solely to the Speaker, viewing such statements as undermining the Speaker’s authority.

Expressing disappointment over the BRS leadership’s silence on these issues, Prabhakar criticized the party’s protest against the suspension of former minister Jagadish Reddy. He found it ironic that those previously accused of undermining democratic processes now label Reddy’s suspension as undemocratic. Prabhakar called for the BRS to reflect on their understanding of democratic values and urged the public to be vigilant about the intentions behind such actions.

He also highlighted the importance of maintaining decorum within legislative assemblies, pointing out that deliberate breaches suggest ulterior motives. Prabhakar expressed concern that the Speaker, belonging to a marginalized community, was being targeted unfairly. He urged the BRS leadership to introspect on their commitment to upholding democratic values and legislative decorum.