Pradesh Congress Committee president Botsa Satyanarayana on Friday claimed that his party is ready to face the by-elections in the constituencies that are likely to fall vacant due to the
disqualification of rebel MLAs.
Talking to media persons at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in New Delhi, the PCC chief hoped that all 16 MLAs would be disqualified under the Anti Defection Law for defying the party whip during the recent
No Confidence Motion in the Assembly.
He said that the party is gearing up for the by-elections, and that the process of identifying suitable candidates for these constituencies has been initiated.
Stating that victory and defeat in elections are "part of electoral politics", Botsa said that the party would take the results of by-elections in a "sportive" manner.
However, he said that the by-elections would not be a referendum on the government's performance.
He also said that all the Congress leaders would contest the elections unitedly.
The PCC chief said that the Congress High Command has given its nod for action against 16 MLAs who have joined the YSR Congress party. Further, 4 MLCs, who are now sailing with Kadapa MP Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy's camp, will also face action, he stated.
Botsa accused TDP president N Chandrababu Naidu of introducing the no-trust motion with an eye on power.
"He introduced the No Confidence Motion to protect his selfish interests. However, the Congress defeated the motion efficiently with the cooperation of all MLAs, and has proved its strength," he stated.
The PCC president also denied having any differences with Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy over matters of policy.
"I have a clear understanding with the Chief Minister," he stated.
When reporters cited some media reports about him having differences with Kiran Kumar Reddy, he said that he would react only after going through those reports.
Regarding the Telangana issue, Botsa Satyanarayana expressed confidence that the High Command would soon take a decision despite the lack of unanimity among parties.
He announced that the party would give K Chiranjeevi, who has merged his Praja Rajyam Party with the Congress, a "suitable position".
He also assured that the leaders and the cadre of the erstwhile PRP would be accommodated in the party and the government soon.
Botsa also hinted at making major changes in the Pradesh Congress Committee and DCCs shortly. He said that he has already discussed the matter with senior Congress leaders. (INN)