Hyderabad: Tensions have risen between Endowments Minister Konda Surekha and Warangal West MLA Naini Rajender Reddy over the formation of the Bhadrakali Temple Trust Board in Warangal. The MLA is unhappy because his suggested name was not included in the committee. He has openly criticized the minister for not considering his recommendation. Sources reveal that the MLA put forward 10 names for the board appointments. However, one woman’s name was disqualified during verification due to criminal records. According to rules, those appointed as temple Dharmakartas must have a clean record.
Upon learning of the disqualification, the MLA suggested another person. However, this person did not apply for the Dharmakarta position. A senior official questioned whether Naini Rajender Reddy, a senior leader, was unaware of the appointment rules in the Endowment Department.
Sources also indicate that out of the 10 recommendations, the minister accepted eight. Minister Surekha’s associates emphasize that rules prevent appointing those disqualified in verification. They also questioned the fairness of pressuring officials to appoint a disqualified individual. There are claims the MLA tried to backdate an application to force its acceptance.
A Congress party senior defended Minister Konda Surekha, highlighting her role as the only BC woman in the state’s cabinet. The leader praised her adherence to rules and noted she approved eight of the MLA’s suggested names. He questioned if a first-time MLA should speak against a BC woman minister in such a manner.
