Since the coalition government came to power in Andhra Pradesh, there have been widespread criticisms that everyone—from top government leaders downward—is functioning according to a single agenda. It is well known that the AP government has rolled out the red carpet even for companies facing allegations of large-scale scams during the previous YSRCP government. Taking advantage of this situation, there is intense discussion within party circles that even ministers holding key positions in the government have directly entered the field themselves, with an attitude of “why should we hold back,” and have gone so far as to bring their own family members into the fray. Party sources say that one minister, who holds crucial responsibilities in the government, has brought both of his sons into the field and effectively allotted them roles similar to the subjects allocated to government departments.
According to these sources, one of the minister’s sons is handling bill-related matters, while the other is overseeing mining affairs. There has been widespread talk in government circles that this has been going on for the past few months. It is also being said that an office has been set up in Hyderabad for this purpose. Though the minister projects an image of being extremely honest on the surface, his dealings behind the scenes are said to be far from ordinary. There is also talk within TDP circles that even when he was in the opposition, he carried out several “settlements” in coordination with leaders of the then ruling party. After the minister’s two sons entered the field, it is said that he completely sidelined those who had been close to him for a long time and turned the entire operation into a “family package.”
Government sources claim that the senior minister has formed a team along with certain individuals in the CMO to ensure that all his activities run smoothly. It is being said that they collectively manage various matters behind the scenes. While there is not much speed in the functioning of the department he oversees, officials say that he ensures his own work moves at tremendous speed. As the department under his charge is extremely crucial, there is strong buzz in government circles that he, along with his sons, is handling matters on a large scale by taking advantage of this position.