Naidu directed district in-charge ministers to immediately summon errant party MLAs in their jurisdiction and counsel them to maintain discipline.
Vijayawada: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu cried a halt to indiscipline in his Telugu Desam party, issuing a strong warning to mainly to legislators at the cabinet meeting in Amaravati on Thursday.
Naidu cautioned MLAs that unruly behaviour would not be tolerated. He asked, “If public representatives themselves act irresponsibly, who will be accountable?”
The CM made it clear that legal steps would be initiated if any legislator was found violating law. He raised alarm over the emergence of a “criminal mafia” in the state and asked ministers to exercise extreme caution in dealing with such elements.
He directed district in-charge ministers to immediately summon errant party MLAs in their jurisdiction and counsel them to maintain discipline.
Earlier in the day, ahead of the cabinet session, a breakfast meeting was hosted where education minister Nara Lokesh held discussions with his cabinet colleagues. Expressing displeasure over the conduct of seven legislators, Lokesh cited the case of Srisailam MLA Budda Rajasekhar Reddy, who was involved in a street altercation with forest officials.
Lokesh noted that the government’s welfare initiatives, particularly the Stree Shakti scheme, had gained strong acceptance among the people. Indiscipline among MLAs could tarnish the image of the party. He stressed that responsibility for controlling such leaders lay with the in-charge ministers.
Referring to the party’s recent win in Pulivendula, Lokesh said the achievement was being well received by the public.
Naidu and Lokesh advised caution in cases involving the so-called “lady don” of Nellore and on matters relating to parole recommendations. Home minister Vangalapudi Anitha was specifically asked to exercise vigil while granting parole.
Lokesh also raised concerns about a Nellore MLA recommending parole for certain individuals. The minister underlined the need for elected representatives to be careful in such matters.
Meeting: Lokesh said the CM would hold a follow-up meeting at his residence with ministers and select MLAs on August 23. The meeting would focus on appointments to district party committees and other organisational bodies.
