Hyderabad, Dec.3 (NSS): Minister for Transport and BC Welfare Ponnam Prabhakar said the Congress government is working as per the aspirations of Telangana Martyr Srikantha Chary.
Addressing the Youth Day conference to mark the occasion of Srikantha Chary’s death anniversary at Basheerbagh Press Club, here on Tuesday, the Minister emphasised that the Telangana government was committed to fulfill Srikantha Chary’s vision.
“Srikantha Chary was not just a martyr, but a symbol of inspiration who reignited the spirit of Telangana, even in his final moments,” he remarked.
Ponnam Prabhakar criticised those who undermine the movement’s legacy by claiming undue credit. “Telangana’s formation was a result of relentless efforts by many. Even Sonia Gandhi, who was deeply invested in the cause, played a pivotal role,” he added.
Ponnam Prabhakar also reflected on the hardships faced during the movement, including prolonged strikes by RTC and Singareni employees that disrupted Southern India’s electricity supply. Despite resistance from the then Chief Minister Kiran Kumar Reddy, activists persisted, even creating history by blocking the President’s address and staging a 48-hour protest on Parliament steps, he recalled.
Condemning the recent remarks of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who insulted the sacrifices of Telangana’s martyrs, Ponnam said,”Statements likening the division to killing the mother to save the child are shameful. Telangana’s creation followed proper legislative procedures,”.
He urged BJP leaders like Kishan Reddy to seek an apology for these comments.
Highlighting the government’s achievements, Ponnam Prabhakar noted, “We’ve increased allowances for Gurukul students by 40 percent, recruited teachers, offered promotions, and conducted examinations for Group 1, 2, and 3 jobs.”
Minister for Tourism Jupally Krishna Rao said the sacrifices of martyrs in the achievement of Telangana statehood are unforgettable and the Telangana State was formed on the foundation of the sacrifices of many people like Srikantha Chary.
MLC Professor Kodandaram and MLA Kunamneni Sambasiva Rao were also present in the meeting.
