Hyderabad: Telangana Panchayat Raj Minister Seethakka has said her comments on local body elections were misreported and denied ever referring to a formal notification.
She said she had only indicated that clarity on the issue was expected within four or five days, and nothing more. “I never mentioned a notification,” she said, adding that no poll announcement can happen without cabinet approval, a process she is fully aware of.
The remarks came after TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud publicly criticised ministers for speaking on election matters without cabinet clearance. In response, Seethakka said her words were twisted and taken out of context.
She said those accusing her of making premature announcements should check the recording of her speech. “Let them produce the video,” she said. “I’ve not backtracked. What I said is on record.”
She also said she clarified the matter on the same day the statement was misunderstood. She accused sections of the media of targeting her unfairly. “I’m a tribal woman. They’re writing whatever they want,” she said.
According to her, the comment was made at a public event with a large turnout, and her only statement was that an update on elections would come within a week. She said she made no claim about dates or notifications.
She urged those spreading misinformation to reflect on their actions. She added that today’s cabinet meeting is expected to bring official clarity.
On reservations, she said the government stands by its commitment to 42% quota for BCs. A decision, she said, may be taken today.
Hitting out at former minister K.T. Rama Rao, she said he appeared eager for arrest. “Now that Kavitha has gone to jail, there’s sudden concern for BCs, women and Dalits,” she said.
Seethakka said the government was functioning within the law and there was no vindictive agenda against anyone.
