Action Likely Against Jagan Aides

Suspension of the 21 MLAs who joined Kadapa leader Y S Jaganmohan Reddy at his 'Jal Deeksha' camp in New Delhi on January 11 seems to be the only option left open to the Congress' managers, according to reports.

Any delay further might mar the Congress' chances. Or it might embolden more MLAs to cross the floor to extend support to Jagan, who can then call the shots.

The High Command has decided to act with a firm hand, before the situation slips out of control.

The delay, as explained by the sources, was because the 21 MLAs, were given enough time to "rectify" their decision.

Seeing them not coming round to reason, the Congress hastened to act with an iron hand in order to bring the situation under control.

Now, deputy speaker Nadendla Manohar has 2 alternatives before him. The first option is to take a suo motu action against those disregarding or indulging in anti-party activities.

The second is to invite complaints from the chief whip or whip, and initiate action against the 21 members.

In the second case, the chief whip or whip is expected to file the complaints along with the proof of the anti-party activities committed by the erring members. Then, notices will be served on them and replies from them shall be allowed, all of which takes a week or so. Action by the deputy speaker begins after both sides present their arguments. There is no time limit for the Speaker's action.

Earlier, 11 TRS MLAs received the Speaker's suspension for violating the whip's direction.

With the scope of shifting the stage to Assembly premises now, the ball will go to the Speaker's court.

In the absence of a regular Speaker (N Kiran Kumar Reddy was Assembly Speaker before he was appointed CM), Nadendla Manodar assumes full charge and can conduct business as usual.

Courtesy: INN