Date:12/02/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/02/12/stories/2008021254130400.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

CM hails Governor’s address to Assembly

Special Correspondent

Opposition parties term it “pro-rich”

HYDERABAD: Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy has asserted that Governor N.D. Tiwari’s address to the joint session of the legislature has “mirrored” the developments of the Congress Government and incorporated the concept of “inclusive growth.”

Speaking to reporters in the Assembly lobbies, he “heartily welcomed” the speech that outlined major thrust areas of the Government.

Hoodwinking people

CPI (M) floor leader N. Narsimhaiah criticised the address claiming it was yet another attempt to hoodwink the people. While the speech reflected the pro-rich attitude of the Government, it failed to make mention about the projects in Telangana region.

The TRS which staged a walkout shortly after the Governor commenced his address, said the party anticipated steps for setting in motion the process to create separate Telangana . It conveyed its resentment by walking out, TRS floor leader G. Vijayarama Rao said.

CPI floor leader Ch. Venkat Reddy said Mr. Tiwari needlessly glorified the Government and the address did not reflect the ground realities. BJP MLA G. Kishan Reddy accused the Government of insulting the Governor, a veteran freedom fighter, by forcing him to speak “blatant lies.” Welcoming decisions like Rs. 2 kg rice, MIM floor leader Akbaruddin Owaisi, however, faulted the speech for not mentioning about Urdu as second language and Wakf properties’ protection.