CM Revanth Reddy disappointed over denial of fair share to Telangana in Padma awards

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy expresses disappointment over Telangana's lack of recognition in Padma awards, plans to write to PM Modi.

Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy plans to write a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing his disappointment and displeasure over the denial of fair share to Telangana in the Padma awards.

Sources in the Government said that despite the government recommending prominent people in various categories the Central government ignored them, and this was nothing but an insult to Telangana.

The government recommendations included prominent personalities like Gaddar (Padma Vibhushan), Chukka Ramaiah (Padma Bhushan), Andesri (Padma Bhushan), Gorati Venkanna (Padma Shri), and Jayadheer Tirumala Rao (Padma Shri), who have proved their excellence in their fields.

Their contribution to Telangana culture, people’s movements, arts, education and protection of tribal culture is unparalleled in the country, sources said. Their role in the Telangana agitation and mobilising public opinion is legendary, felt a senior official. “By not recognising their distinguished service, the Centre has insulted the State.”

Telangana got just two of the 139 awards, including Padmavibhushan to noted Gastroenterologist Duvvur Nageshwar Reddy and Madiga Reservation Porata Samiti (MRPS) founder Manda Krishna Madiga. The State should have got at least five awards is what the Chief Minister felt.

Dr. Nageshwar Reddy hails from Kurnool district but has been a resident of Hyderabad for several decades establishing the Asian Institute of Gastroenterology (AIG). Interestingly, Hindupur MLA and filmstar Nandamuri Balakrishna, who has been living in Hyderabad since his school days was placed in Andhra Pradesh category.

Meanwhile, in a statement, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy congratulated Dr. Nageshwar Reddy and Mr. Krishna Madiga on being named for the Padma awards. He said their contribution to their respective fields would be an inspiration to many and the society has benefitted from their commitment.