Hyderabad: Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy on Saturday condemned the personal attacks against him on social media. He asserted that ministers hold no authority in transferring IAS officers. Speaking emotionally, he accused some online platforms of spreading false narratives and warned that such harassment could cause serious mental distress.
“Kill me by giving some poison,” he said at a press conference held at the Ministers Quarters, describing what he called a campaign of mental torture. He added that those behind the attacks would eventually face divine consequences.
Minister defends role and slams targeting of women officers
Komatireddy questioned the backlash he received for holding review meetings with district officials. “Is it wrong for officials to sit with me?” he asked. Citing his six electoral wins, he appealed for empathy, especially in light of his personal grief. “If you think you can make me cry, then try; I’m already grieving the loss of my son,” he said.
He strongly opposed the targeting of female officers and criticized the irresponsible sharing of misinformation by the media and on social media. The Minister clarified that only the Chief Minister and Chief Secretary are authorized to transfer IAS officers. He emphasized that these officers operate under significant pressure and deserve dignity, not baseless allegations.
Calling for ethical journalism, Komatireddy urged media professionals to consider the impact of their reports. “The media has wives and children too. IAS officers also have families. Harassing them is unjust,” he said. He condemned the ongoing targeting of women officers and asked, “Is it wrong for women to pursue their careers?”
In a separate comment, the Cinematography Minister distanced himself from the film sector. He said he had withdrawn from film-related matters after controversy surrounding the movie Pushpa. He also stated he had no knowledge of recent government orders regarding Raja Saab or Chiranjeevi’s films. “Those orders were issued without my knowledge. I’ve shifted my focus away from the industry,” he said.