Hyderabad, Jan 18: Telangana Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka expressed his fury over what he called “false reporting” regarding the coal mine issue in the state. He accused Andhra Jyothi’s Chairman, Radhakrishna, of weaving “fables and fabricated stories.” Stating that the reports were purely imaginary, Bhatti made serious comments, saying that he and Radhakrishna would settle this matter.
Speaking to the media today, Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka said: “My goal and my job is to protect people’s assets. I did not enter politics to amass wealth or for positions of power. I entered politics to protect the people from the ‘vultures’ who prey on them. My aim is to serve the public and ensure that society’s resources are distributed equally among the people.”
Referring to a specific column, he continued: “Today, Andhra Jyothi Chairman Radhakrishna wrote an article in ‘Kotta Paluku.’ He claimed that news reports are being shaped for the sake of coal mines in the state. My name was mentioned in that article. Singareni is the property of the people of Telangana; coal mines are their soul. Tenders are called by the Singareni organization and its board, not an individual.”
He further clarified the technicalities: “The organization sets the tender rules, not the Minister. Since mines are located in difficult terrains, field visits are mandatory. These rules exist for central government organizations as well. One should learn the facts before writing. This is an attempt to create rifts within the state. What Radhakrishna wrote is a baseless fable. He might have a bias toward someone else, but he and I will settle this. The people must know the truth. This is an attempt to mislead the people of Telangana,” he fumed.
Bhatti also noted his past political ties: “I was very close to Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy. Perhaps his anger toward YSR is why he is writing against me. The public deserves to know the facts.”
The Deputy CM issued a stern warning: “As long as I am in this position, I will not let any ‘vultures’ near these assets. I don’t know what issues exist between you and other media houses, but do not drag public representatives into your middle. No one should interfere in personal matters. I will speak later about who is behind these writings.”
He added: “Trying to create disputes between ministers will not work. We are working with self-respect. No channel should tarnish anyone’s image. Our CM and Ministers work for the broader interests of the state. Fabricated stories woven for your personal needs cannot affect us. My character is not that weak. My name was highlighted in large letters, but Radhakrishna’s words cannot harm me. How can such news be written without even a basic bit of sense?” he questioned.
