Tadepalli, June 9: Taking strong objection to the arrest of senior journalist Kommineni Srinivasa Rao, YSRCP said that Chandrababu Naidu has sent a stern message by making him an example—toe the official line or face consequences—as the government has nothing to boast about in its one-year term other than being a failed administration.
Speaking to the media on Monday, Party State Coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy said the arrest is a blot on democracy. The anchor, while moderating the debate, had cautioned the analyst about passing the remarks, which were based on a media report. The presenter did not extend the discussion on the point, nor was it highlighted further—it passed as a brief moment. Regret only came later after witnessing the sinister design of Chandrababu Naidu to blow it up into a major issue.
It was TDP and its media outlets that rose in unison and kept the pot boiling for three days. Despite Kommineni’s clarification and analyst Krishnam Raju’s explanation, the issue was widely circulated. From Chandrababu Naidu to Pawan Kalyan, TDP leaders and their propaganda machinery amplified it in a concerted, organised manner—culminating in the journalist’s arrest.
The media narrative went on despite Sakshi distancing itself from the analyst’s remarks and clearly stating that it does not endorse such views, which were Krishnam Raju’s personal opinion.
The TDP and its media network escalated the issue, targeting the YSRCP leadership and family. Instead of closing the matter with the clarification and regret expressed, dissent was deliberately stirred from Srikakulam to Chittoor, all to divert attention from the government’s failure to implement welfare schemes.
On a previous occasion too, it was Chandrababu Naidu who ensured that Kommineni was removed from a TV channel for his straightforward journalism.
YSRCP leaders said that their party and cadre have often been insulted in media debates, with moderators encouraging toxic remarks—but never once did YS Jagan Mohan Reddy retaliate or promote personal attacks.
Civil society and intellectuals must seriously reflect on the message being sent: “Toe our line, or face arrest.” This is dangerous and must be condemned.
With the completion of one year in office and nothing to show in terms of real achievements, the government has clearly resorted to diversion politics, Sajjala added.
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