RK Roja Reddy, a prominent MLA from the ruling Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) and the Tourism Minister of Andhra Pradesh. Has once again made provocative comments, reminiscent of the popular comedy show “Jabardasth,” directed at TDP MLA and movie superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna. This comes after her previous jubilation over the arrest and bail rejection of Chandrababu Naidu. Now, she has turned her attention towards Balakrishna, who recently held a press conference where he expressed his commitment to lead the TDP until Chandrababu’s release from prison.
Roja stated, “After watching Balakrishna’s press conference, the people of Andhra Pradesh are drawing comparisons. Until now, people used to think that a ‘Vennupotudaarudu’ (referring to Chandrababu) occupied that seat, but now they are saying ‘Mentalgaadu’ (referring to Balayya) is in that seat.” She emphasized that this characterization of Balakrishna as ‘Mentalgaadu’ was not her personal opinion but rather the sentiment of the people. However, her sarcastic remarks did not sit well with even non-political fans of films and Balakrishna.
Critics argued that despite starting her political career with the support of Chandrababu Naidu in 1999, Roja had shifted her allegiance to the YSR-led Congress party after losing the 2009 election. Some pointed out that Balakrishna had given her hit films like “Bhairava Dweepam,” “Gaandeevam,” “Peddhannayya,” and “Bobbili Simham,” but Roja appeared to lack gratitude when it came to criticizing the Nandamuri hero.
In politics, leaders like Roja seem to have little restraint when it comes to making derogatory remarks about others, leaving neutral observers disappointed with the tone of political discourse.