In response to the controversy surrounding the removal of a private bus driver for criticizing Congress leaders during a protest, Telangana’s Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has intervened. The driver, Ashok, was speaking on behalf of farmers, a move welcomed by the government. Despite the central government’s alleged negligence in food grain procurement, the state is ensuring smooth operations.
Prabhakar clarified that Ashok is not an employee of the Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (RTC) but a hired bus driver. He emphasized that the government has advised the bus management not to terminate Ashok. Meanwhile, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders have demanded Ashok’s reinstatement, criticizing the actions taken against him.
The driver, while driving from Jagtial to Dharmapuri, made remarks critical of Congress leaders participating in a protest over fuel price hikes. This led to the Jagtial Depot Manager instructing the removal of Ashok from the bus service. However, Ashok explained that his comments were directed at the need to focus on procuring produce from farmers, not aimed at any political party.
Opposition parties have condemned the government’s decision to dismiss Ashok, calling for his immediate reinstatement. They argue that removing individuals for raising valid concerns sets a dangerous precedent. Political leaders, including T. Harish Rao and K. Kavitha, have criticized the government’s handling of the situation, accusing the ruling Congress of undermining democratic values.
