Konda Surekha Controversy Reaches the Climax

The controversy surrounding Konda Surekha has reportedly reached a crucial stage within the Congress high command. The party leadership is said to be taking not only her daughter’s remarks but also Surekha’s latest comments seriously. Discussions are reportedly underway over taking strict action against Surekha, including the possibility of removing her from the Cabinet. A key AICC leader is said to have remarked that limits had been crossed and that strict action could not be ruled out. At the same time, some senior leaders are reportedly making strong efforts to prevent strict action against Surekha.

A series of meetings and consultations reportedly took place throughout Wednesday. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka met Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge together last night. They later attended the Rajasekhar Reddy Awards programme in the same car. After the event, Bhatti Vikramarka travelled to Kharge’s residence in Kharge’s car. Shortly afterwards, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy held a separate meeting with Kharge and later also held discussions with Meenakshi Natarajan.

The consultations are expected to continue today. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka and the PCC chief are currently in Delhi. KC Venugopal is scheduled to meet Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge today and is expected to brief Rahul Gandhi on the developments with a comprehensive report. Depending on the situation and timing, the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Minister and PCC chief may also meet Rahul Gandhi.

Along with possible action against Konda Surekha, changes and reshuffling in the Cabinet are also reportedly being discussed. With the government approaching three years in office, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is said to have sought an opportunity to review and reshuffle the Cabinet based on ministers’ performance and efficiency. The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister have also reportedly discussed Cabinet changes, filling nominated posts, Governor’s quota and the upcoming Graduates’ MLC elections with KC Venugopal and Kharge. Clarity on whether the Cabinet expansion will take place before or after the Assembly sessions beginning on the 7th of this month is expected after the Chief Minister’s meetings with Rahul Gandhi.