Tirupati: Remarks by G.D. Nellore MLA V.M. Thomas alleging discrimination against Scheduled Caste legislators have triggered political debate within the ruling alliance in Andhra Pradesh.
Thomas made the comments while addressing a Chief Minister’s Relief Fund distribution programme at Srirangarajapuram in Chittoor district. He questioned whether SC leaders were needed only during elections and denied positions of authority after the party came to power.
Calling such an approach unfair, the MLA said there appeared to be a tendency in some sections to look down on Scheduled Castes. He alleged that SC MLAs were being targeted and subjected to difficulties.
“SCs are needed to spend and help win elections, but should they not be in positions of power? Is it right to suppress them?” he asked.
Thomas said the view that SC leaders should remain subordinate was unacceptable. Pointing out that leaders from other communities also made mistakes, he asked why only SC MLAs were being singled out.
He further alleged that there was a mindset expecting SC leaders to remain submissive. “The notion that SCs should remain dependent or obedient is not correct,” he said, adding that such attitudes must change.
The remarks sparked discussion in political circles, with analysts saying such comments from a ruling alliance MLA could cause discomfort within the NDA combine and indicate internal differences.
Some leaders from the ruling party, however, criticised Thomas and alleged that his remarks stemmed from dissatisfaction over not being given a significant post.
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