Ponnam-Adluri Rift Ends With TPCC Chief's Intervention

The rift between ministers Ponnam Prabhakar and Adluri Laxman Kumar was resolved after a reconciliatory meeting convened today by TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud at his residence in Hyderabad.

Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar offered a conditional apology to his Cabinet colleague for making disparaging remarks.

The meeting followed escalating tensions after Prabhakar allegedly referred to Laxman as a buffalo, sparking controversy.

During a recent party gathering, Prabhakar made the remark unaware that his microphone was on. In response, Laxman demanded an apology, while Prabhakar denied making the comment directly to him. The dispute coincided with the announcement of the Jubilee Hills by-election, prompting AICC in-charge Meenakshi Natarajan to instruct the State leaders to resolve the issue promptly.

"I extend my sincere apologies for the distress caused to Laxman. The Congress stands as a champion of social justice. Having been raised within the party, I hold no malice toward anyone. While I may not have explicitly stated this earlier, I deeply regret the pain he experienced as reported in the media. Those words do not reflect my beliefs, as I was not brought up in that mindset. The Congress has never instilled such a culture in me," Prabhakar told the media, accompanied by Laxman, TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud, and other party leaders.

"Focusing on our shared commitment to social justice and setting aside personal differences, the Congress party - rooted in the concerns of marginalised communities - will work toward implementing 42% reservations as recommended by Rahul Gandhi, under the guidance of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud. Together, we will strive to uphold social justice," Prabhakar added.

Laxman said, "The Congress supports the underprivileged sections of society. As a representative, I am honoured to serve as a minister. I remain loyal to my party and hold Ponnam Prabhakar in high regard. However, my Madiga community was hurt by his remarks. The issue has now been resolved with his apology."

TPCC chief Mahesh Kumar Goud said, "Ponnam Prabhakar's comments caused disappointment among the people of Telangana. This dispute between the ministers should be viewed as a family matter. Ponnam has expressed remorse and apologised for his comments. Both Ponnam and Adluri are dedicated leaders. I appeal to the Madiga community not to escalate the issue further, and I urge all ministers to speak responsibly in the future. The Congress is inclusive of all communities."