YSRCP slams media for insulting government employees
YSRCP spokesperson Putha Siva Shankar condemns media outlets for using derogatory terms like blade batch and ganja batch against protesting employees.
The YSRCP has launched a scathing attack on certain media houses, accusing them of using derogatory language to target government employees who recently staged protests for their rights. Speaking at a significant event, party spokesperson Putha Siva Shankar condemned the way journalists have allegedly ridiculed workers seeking to resolve their legitimate grievances.
'Blade Batch' and 'Ganja Batch' labels condemned
In a strongly worded statement, Siva Shankar expressed outrage over the use of offensive terms such as “blade batch” and “ganja batch” to describe protesting staff. He highlighted the irony and disrespect shown toward individuals who have worked hard to secure public service positions.
The spokesperson pointed out several key concerns regarding the media's conduct:
- Qualification vs. Ridicule: Many employees in the Village and Ward Secretariats hold advanced degrees, including B.Tech, M.Tech, and postgraduate qualifications. Branding these educated professionals with such labels is considered shameful by the party.
- Lack of Courage: Siva Shankar questioned the bravery of media personalities who make such stinging remarks from the safety of television studios, asking if they would dare to say the same directly to the employees' faces.
- Targeting Dissent: He raised the question of whether any individual who raises a voice against the current administration will now be labeled a “ganja batch” by what he termed the “yellow media.”
- Inconsistency in Labeling: The party noted that major government employees' associations have also protested recently, questioning if they too would face the same derogatory branding.
Demands for legal action and grievance redressal
The YSRCP has called upon the government to take immediate legal action against the media organisations and individuals responsible for these insults. Beyond the verbal attacks, the party urged the administration to address the genuine demands of the employees and withdraw legal cases filed against those who participated in the protests.
Allegations of discrimination under coalition government
The remarks were made during the birth anniversary celebrations of Mahakavi Gurram Jashuva and revolutionary freedom fighter Bhagat Singh at the YSRCP Central Office. While paying floral tributes to these icons of social justice, YSRCP leaders used the platform to critique the current Andhra Pradesh coalition government.
The party alleged that under the present leadership, Dalits, the poor, and other weaker sections are facing increased suppression and discrimination. They contrasted the current situation with the tenure of former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, claiming his administration prioritized:
- Education and welfare initiatives.
- Political representation for marginalized groups.
- Social dignity and protection for SC, BC, and minority communities.
YSRCP leaders concluded by stating that law and order have deteriorated, specifically impacting women and disadvantaged sections, and vowed to continue their fight against what they described as anti-people policies.