Leader of the Opposition Y S Jaganmohan Reddy today took potshots at Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu after moving motion of condolence on 29 stampede deaths during the first day of Godavari Pushkarams at Rajahmundry.
Comparing Chandrababu Naidu’s condolences to the bereaved family members Pushkar Ghat victims as “Ghosts chanting Vedas”, Jagan alleged that the State government failed to pay compensation to the breaved families. Jagan attributed the stampede deaths to Chandrababu Naidu’s craze for publicity. Had Naidu not switched to pushkar ghat meant for common people from the VIP ghat, the fatal stampede incident would not have occurred claiming 29 deaths, he said and accused Naidu of killing the 29 devotees for being ruthless for publicity to shoot a short film.
When the Leader of the Opposition tried to continue his tirade, an annoyed leader of the House warned of serious action if Jagan failed to refrain from making derogatory remarks. Naidu claimed that his government was committed to the welfare and doing their best for the State development. Naidu also slammed Jagan for telling lies to misguide the people.
Taking objection to certain comments made by Jagan, Legislative Affairs Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu said it was not proper for the Opposition leader to speak in a provocative tone.
Speaker K Sivaprasad also told the Leader of Opposition that some comments made by him were derogatory in nature and suggested that they be withdrawn.
At this juncture, the Opposition members trooped into the well of the House as the Speaker allowed the Chief Minister to speak. Even as the YSRCP members continued their protests, Naidu said the government was ready for debate on any issue and found fault with the Opposition for holding protests during an obituary reference. (NSS)