Hyderabad, January 15: Suspension of the 21 MLAs who joined Kadapa leader YS Jaganmohan Reddy at his ‘Jal Deeksha’ camp in New Delhi on January 11 seems to be the only option left open to the Congress managers, according to the latest reports reaching here.
Any delay further might mar the Congress’ chances. Or it might embolden more MLAs to cross the floor to extend support to Jagan, who can call the shots.
Before the situation goes out of hands, the High Command has decided to act with a firm hand. The delay as explained by the sources was that they, 21 MLAs, were given enough time to rectify themselves.
Seeing them not coming round to reason, the Congress hastened to act with an iron hand in order to bring the situation under control. Now, Deputy Speaker Nadendla Manohar has two alternatives before him to act. The first option is to take a suo motu action against those disregarding or indulging in anti-party activities.
Another option before the Deputy Speaker is to invite complaints from the Chief Whip or Whip as the case may be and initiate action against the 21 Members. In the second case, the Chief Whip or Whip are expected to file the complaints along with the proof of the anti-party activities committed by the erring members. Then, notices will be served on them and replies from them shall be allowed, all of which takes a week or so and then action by the Deputy Speaker begins after both sides present their arguments. There is no time limit for the Speaker’s action which is left to his discretion.
Earlier 11 TRS MLAs received the Speaker’s suspension for violating the Whip’s direction. With the scope of shifting the stage to Assembly premises now, the ball will go to the Speaker’s court. TDP leader Yanamala Ramakrishnudu, who had a long innings as the Speaker, was of the opinion whether the Deputy Speaker could act in the current situation and conduct the business. But in the absence of a regular Speaker, Mr Manohar assumes full charge and can conduct the business as usual.
INN