TPCC chief Mahesh Goud defends Konda Surekha’s removal from Cabinet

TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud defended Konda Surekha’s removal from the Telangana Cabinet, saying the AICC acted on the TPCC Disciplinary Committee’s report. He also ruled out discussions on Cabinet expansion or reshuffle with the party high command.

Hyderabad: A day after Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy dropped Konda Surekha from his Cabinet, TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud defended the decision, saying the party high command acted on the report of the TPCC Disciplinary Committee.

Responding to Surekha’s allegations, Goud stressed that the Chief Minister had no need to blackmail anyone and that the AICC approved her removal based on the Disciplinary Committee’s report.

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Speaking to the media in New Delhi, the TPCC president wanted Surekha to continue in the Congress party. He maintained that she was removed from the Cabinet following complaints regarding her conduct.

Countering criticism that the party had failed to protect a BC woman leader, Goud stated that caste and regional equations could not be considered when dealing with disciplinary issues.

He said three BC women had already been appointed to different positions and stressed that the party high command was keen on giving priority to BCs in future appointments.

However, Goud’s remarks dashed the hopes of several MLAs aspiring for a Cabinet berth. He clarified that there had been no discussion with the AICC leadership on Cabinet expansion or a reshuffle.

“There was no discussion on Cabinet expansion or reshuffle with the AICC leadership. It was not an agenda at all. Discussions were held over a few Bills to be introduced in the Assembly,” Goud said.