TPCC president blames employees for 22-A controversy

TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud blamed the “overenthusiasm” of some employees for the Section 22-A land controversy and denied differences with CM A. Revanth Reddy. He also defended party discipline and said he would contest the next election from Nizamabad

Hyderabad: The Telangana Congress continues to blame employees for the controversy surrounding the inclusion of several lands and properties in the prohibited category under Section 22-A.

The origins and introduction of Section 22-A would become clear from official records, TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud reportedly said during an informal interaction with media persons on Tuesday. He said the issue was mainly due to the “overenthusiasm” of a few employees, causing hardships to people.

---

“Our responsibility is to ensure that common people do not suffer. A person who purchased a plot should not be blamed. Action should be taken against those who developed ventures despite knowing that the land was on the prohibited list,” Goud said.

The TPCC president also denied having differences with Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. “My wavelength matched well with Revanth Reddy. Differences of opinion are natural in any political party. Reports of a gap between us are incorrect,” he said.

On completing two years as TPCC president, Goud highlighted the Congress’ victories in the Cantonment and Jubilee Hills by-elections under his leadership. He said he was also saddened by the removal of a BC Minister from the Cabinet, but clarified that action against Konda Surekha was taken as per the AICC’s decision.

“No one would be spared if they cross the line and violate party discipline. The AICC has decided to take a strict approach towards indiscipline,” he said.

Goud said he had demanded representation for four to five BC leaders in the Cabinet. “I have not approached anyone seeking a ministerial berth,” he clarified. He also said he would contest the next election from his native district of Nizamabad.