Ponnam Prabhakar says RTC driver Ashok was not removed from duty

LatestHyderabadPolitics
By HNH Web Desk
RTC driver Ashok

Hyderabad: Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Tuesday clarified that RTC driver Ashok was not removed from duty for questioning delays in paddy procurement. He said reports claiming the driver lost his job for speaking about farmers’ issues were false.

The minister clarified that Ashok was not a direct RTC employee and worked for a hired bus operator. However, he said the government issued clear instructions to the bus owner not to remove him from work under any circumstances.

Ponnam Prabhakar alleged that some groups were trying to politicise the issue unnecessarily. At the same time, he stated that the government was ready to accept constructive criticism and positive suggestions made in support of farmers.

The minister said the official machinery was actively working on paddy procurement across the state. According to him, procurement delays occurred because crop arrivals were higher than expected.

RTC driver Ashok issue sparks political debate

Ponnam Prabhakar said the government was increasing the number of procurement centres to speed up the process. He also alleged that lack of cooperation from the Central government created additional difficulties.

The minister said the government welcomed the comments made by RTC driver Ashok regarding farmers’ issues. However, he clarified that authorities never instructed the management to take action against him.

Ponnam Prabhakar advised opposition parties not to politicise the issue further.

 

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