Though the opposition TDP has taken a stand not to support the motion and maintain neutrality, the government did not take any chance. The party summoned even those touring other states and abroad.
Congress leadership ensured the presence of Sankar Rao and Manemma though both were ill. MLA Korla Bharati cut short her visit to USA and rushed back. Though she was not able to attend the house by the time voting was held, she made an earnest attempt to honour the party’s whip and attend the House. Soon after returning to Hyderabad on Saturday, she met the Chief Minister and explained to him that she could not attend the house because of unexpected delay in the arrival of her flight.
While all other members had taken the matter so seriously, Marri Sasidhar Reddy who was in Delhi wrote a letter to the party that he would not be able to participate in the voting. Supporters of the Chief Minister are angry with the attitude of Sasidhar Reddy. They argue that a whip is issued as a direction that all the members should set aside all other works including even very important, as attending the House overrides all other activities including official works.
Kiran Kumar Reddy said even if one writes a letter expressing inability, it would not be valid.It would only be considered as violation of the whip and attract action. It should now be seen if action would be taken against this high profile MLA who is close to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, for violation of the whip along with others.
