NI Bureau
# Helicopter Allegedly Diverted for Political Campaigning While Telangana Faced Severe Flooding
#Dr. Paul Urges Telangana High Court to Act on Corruption and Uphold Legislative Integrity
New Delhi, 26 October 2024
Today at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi, Dr. K.A. Paul, President of the Global Peace Initiative, issued a powerful condemnation of the Telangana administration for allegedly diverting a government helicopter—intended for humanitarian efforts during recent catastrophic floods—for political campaigning. The helicopter’s alleged use in a political campaign has spurred controversy as Telangana grapples with one of its worst flood crises, with regions like Khammam bearing the brunt of the devastation.
*Helicopter Misuse as Telangana Flood Victims Suffer*
Dr. Paul expressed frustration that the helicopter was not used for relief operations, especially in areas affected by severe flooding. “While the people of Khammam suffer, the helicopter was allegedly deployed for political purposes instead of rescue missions,” he stated. Drawing comparisons to his own humanitarian work, Dr. Paul recalled using his private aircraft for relief efforts during the 2004 tsunami and other crises, underscoring that government resources should be prioritized for the welfare of the people.
*Cash Allegedly Smuggled in Helicopter for Campaigning*
Further, Dr. Paul raised concerns over allegations that large sums of money, potentially exceeding a hundred crores, were transported via the government helicopter to aid a political campaign. He called for a thorough investigation, demanding accountability and emphasizing that “public funds and resources should not be abused for political agendas.”
*Legal Action Against 10 Defected MLAs in Telangana High Court*
Dr. Paul, in a case he personally argued before the Telangana High Court, called for the disqualification of 10 MLAs elected under the BRS ticket who defected to the Congress. He invoked the Tenth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which prohibits such defections, referencing prior court rulings, including those on BSP MLAs in 1998, as critical precedents. He argued that “these MLAs betrayed the mandate of their constituents and should face immediate disqualification.”
*Judiciary’s Role in Upholding Legislative Integrity and Speaker’s Bias*
Addressing arguments by the Congress that only the Speaker can handle disqualifications, Dr. Paul criticized the Speaker’s perceived bias, stating that the judiciary must intervene to preserve democratic standards. He questioned how a Congress Speaker could fairly disqualify defectors from his own party, calling it “a mockery of democracy” and urging the judiciary to uphold constitutional accountability.
*Minister Ponguleti’s Alleged Threats and Corruption Questioned*
Dr. Paul also voiced strong opposition to statements allegedly made by Telangana Congress Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, who reportedly threatened arrests of opposition leaders before Diwali. Dr. Paul questioned the minister’s rapid wealth accumulation and influence, calling for an investigation into the origins of his assets. “No one in public office should be immune from scrutiny,” he declared, urging courts to address corruption within Telangana’s leadership.
*Court Date Set for Final Orders on November 4, 2024*
The Telangana High Court will hear the case on November 4, 2024. Dr. Paul emphasized that the judiciary has a duty to address issues of political corruption with urgency, calling for reforms that ensure swift justice, particularly in cases of severe crimes. “A stronger legal framework that prioritizes the welfare of citizens over politics is essential,” he added, stressing the need for judicial reform.
*Telangana Deserves Transparent Leadership” – Dr. K.A. Paul*
Dr. Paul closed by reaffirming that the government must prioritize the needs of the people over political interests, stating, “The citizens of Telangana deserve leaders who place public welfare first.” His message calls for immediate action to prevent further misuse of resources and uphold the rule of law.
