Hyderabad: ‘Chinnamma’ Sushma Swaraj will always be remembered by the people of Telangana for championing the formation of a separate state.
In her speech in Parliament on August 5, 2011, when she was in the opposition, she urged the youth fighting for a separate state not to sacrifice their lives, but rather to live to see the formation of Telangana state as their death will not benefit the country. That she spoke in Telugu struck a chord among the people here.
BJP national executive member Ramachandra Rao said, “She kept track of every development. Sushmaji always lent an ear to weavers, farmers, fishermen and NRI women. During her state tours, she made it a point to visit the villages to learn the core problems of the people. Our Chinnamma (maternal aunt) was always in support of Telangana and addressed the bifurcation issue in Parliament.”
Leaders said recalled as a very humble politician, a terrific orator and a minister who brought diplomacy to the people.
“She knew everyone in the party. One of her last campaigns was in Malkajgiri constituency in April 2019. On her return from Karimnagar where she met the weaver community, she visited my home to meet my family. Sushmaji’s warm hug was overwhelming and will remain an unforgettable moment,” added Mr Ramachandra Rao.
BJP chief spokesperson Krishna Saagar Rao remembered her a “very rare, sharp, efficient and affable leader. Sushma Swaraj was a humanist; she could sense the pain in those who approached her. She was an exemplary embodiment of
leadership.”
She called herself Telangana’s Chinnamma in her speech at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit held in Hyderabad in 2017.
BJP state president Dr K. Laxman shared some memories of her stay in Hyderabad: “During her stay at the Lake View guesthouse, she was always respectful to the staff. Her interest in Telangana was seen in how she connected with the people. She always wanted to see youth progressing. Many considered it fortunate to translate her speeches. Even a month back she enquired about Telangana.”
