:

Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president Mahesh Kumar Goud said that the party will not spare anyone, irrespective of their stature, if they cross the limits by criticising the Congress or its leadership.

He said that the Congress allowed democratic freedom to its members to express their views, but this “freedom did not mean that leaders could make statements as they pleased.” He suggested that party leaders with grievances should raise them through internal mechanisms.

“There are various committees in the party to address such issues. If necessary, leaders can go to Delhi and raise their concerns with AICC general secretary K.C. Venugopal,” he said at a press conference in Nizamabad on Sunday.

On the ‘action’ against Minister Konda Surekha, Mr. Goud said that the AICC Disciplinary Committee was examining the matter and a decision would be taken after its review. He rejected the comparison of the Congress with BRS and BJP, saying the Congress was not a dictatorial party and allowed its leaders to express their views.

Meanwhile, Minister Vakiti Srihari said there was no need for anyone to conspire against the Endowments Minister. He said that the comments made by Ms. Surekha’s daughter were damaging the interests of the party.

“First the party, then individuals. Everyone has the responsibility to protect the party,” Mr. Srihari said, adding that action should be taken if anyone crossed the party’s limits.