YSRCP MLC Botsa Satyanarayana Criticizes Pawan Kalyan and Y.S. Sharmila
In a sharp political response, YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) MLC and former minister Botsa Satyanarayana launched strong criticisms against Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Congress leader Y.S. Sharmila, addressing their recent public statements and political actions.
Responding to claims made by Pawan Kalyan that rice is being smuggled through Kakinada Port, Botsa questioned the efficacy of the authorities in addressing the alleged issue. He asked pointedly, “Who asked authorities not to take action against smugglers?” Botsa mocked Kalyan’s remarks, likening his behavior to a scene from the popular film Gabbar Singh-3, and raised the question of whether such activities could occur without the involvement of the relevant officials. While Botsa clarified that he did not doubt Pawan Kalyan’s personal integrity, he humorously shared an anecdote from his early days in politics. Reflecting on his initial understanding of governance in 2004, Botsa recalled how he once thought ministers held absolute power, only to realize later the complexities of administration. He humorously summarized this shift in understanding as a transition from saying “Who?” to “Oh!”—a lighthearted way of highlighting the reality of governance.
Botsa also turned his attention to Y.S. Sharmila, the Andhra Pradesh Congress Chief. He criticized her approach to politics, suggesting that her behavior was not reflective of a leader of a political party. Botsa stated that while some might recognize her, he emphasized, “we don’t even acknowledge her.” He advised Sharmila to focus on more substantial issues in her role as Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) President, rather than engaging in personal attacks or targeting individuals. Recalling his own tenure as a former PCC president, Botsa underscored the importance of handling the responsibilities of the position with a constructive mindset, urging Sharmila to adopt a more forward-looking and issue-based approach to politics.
Botsa’s remarks highlight the growing tensions within the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh, as leaders from different parties continue to engage in public exchanges. His criticisms reflect the ongoing political rivalry between the ruling YSRCP and opposition leaders in the state.
