Sridhar Babu defends resignation from cabinet

Civil Supplies Minister D Sridhar Babu on Friday justified his resignation from the post and described it as a protest against alleged efforts to stall the formation of Telangana State.

Speaking to media persons at his residence here, Sridhar Babu, who resigned from the cabinet on Thursday, said that stripping him off the portfolio for Legislative Affairs was an attempt by Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy to prevent the formation of Telangana. He claimed that his portfolio was changed as he ensured the tabling of Telangana Bill and also initiated the debate in the Assembly. He said that the Telangana would be a reality, with or without a debate in the Assembly.

"I have not quit for myself, but against the moves that are being made to stall Telangana," he said. Babu said his resignation was only a small step when compared to the sacrifices made by mothers of those who lost their lives for Telangana. He alleged that the Chief Minister and Seemandhra leaders have failed to understand the aspirations of Telangana people who are waiting for the statehood for the region.

Sridhar Babu advised the Chief Minister to follow the Congress High Command and avoid a confrontation. He said he was completely satisfied with his performance as the Legislative Affairs Minister in the past.