CM K Chandrasekhar Rao tells media not to be anti-Telangana State

The Chief Minister, who participated in the centenary celebrations of veteran Telangana poet late Kaloji Narayana Rao, in Warangal, took strong exception to the black badge demonstration by the representatives of the two channels and said, “Me and my government will not bow down to such pressure. Instead we would take stern action if anyone indulges in a vicious and malicious campaign against the people of Telangana.”

“I have observed the protests here and also in Hyderabad and New Delhi by the representatives of the two channels. They have not learnt lessons. It is improper of them to lead such demonstrations and protests, after airing special bulletins insulting elected MLAs. Passing insinuating remarks against them is objectionable. The entire Telangana Assembly condemned it and wanted the Speaker to initiate action. The decision of the Speaker is pending. How can anyone tolerate such humiliation by the channels? What right do they have to insult us?” Mr Rao asked.

The Chief Minister added, “I salute the MSOs for blocking the channels. If anyone indulges in this kind of vicious campaign against Telangana they will be buried alive. I can tolerate criticism against me, but I cannot tolerate it if it is done against the Telangana people and elected representatives.”

For the last 87 days, the two news channels TV-9 and ABN Andhra Jyothi were blocked by the MSOs ever since the issue came up for discussion in the Telangana Assembly. Though TV 9 has openly tendered apologies the MSOs did not relent.

The issue of blocking two news channels came in for a debate in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha also, and thereafter the Special Tribunal also directed the MSOs to resume airing of channels but that did not happen.

Meanwhile both the representatives of the channels along with other mediapersons started protests in front of the venues where the Chief Minister and other ministers were present but to no avail.