Upper castes getting undue preference in ticket distribution: YSRC MLA

Tirupati: Sitting Puthalapattu MLA M.S. Babu on Tuesday alleged that preferential treatment was given to the upper caste in the YSR Congress, amid reports that he is likely to not be fielded for the upcoming state elections.
Speaking at a press conference, Babu said he was Dalit leaders, like himself, were not being extended fair treatment.

He questioned why incumbent Dalit leaders were being dropped when they were not facing any opposition in their constituencies.

He claimed changes were being planned in seats that were held by Dalit MLAs, regardless of their performance.

“No changes are being made in constituencies of OC (other caste) MLAs, even if they face opposition while Dalit MLAs are being replaced arbitrarily without any justification,” the MLA alleged.

He criticised the ‘lack of respect’ shown by party supremo and Chief Minister Y.S Jagan Mohan Reddy to Dalit MLAs as he demanded an explanation.

Denying any wrongdoing by him as an MLA in the past five years, Babu said he had carried out all tasks assigned to him diligently as per the instructions of the party’s leadership and government authorities.

“I have done all the programmes as per the wishes of the CM. If there is still opposition against me, who is responsible for it,” Babu asked.
Babu alleged the party’s electorate survey agency I-PAC was not functioning properly.

He alleged that survey results could be easily manipulated in favour of aspirants that pay money to the agency.

He expressed helplessness over reports that he may not get a ticket for the next election.

He said the decision was taken without his knowledge and that it was unjust towards a Dalit leader who has been loyal to the party.

Babu said Jagan had not spoken to him personally in the last 5 years, pointing out poor communication in the party ranks.

“Now suddenly I find myself out of favour in the I-PAC surveys and the party decides to deny me the MLA ticket,” rued Babu.