Not Telangana vs Tamil Nadu but matter of pride for Telugus: CM Revanth Reddy
Calling it 'a matter of pride for Telugu people, particularly Telangana,' he urged all MPs from the Telugu states to back the candidature.
'This is not Telangana versus Tamil Nadu. We are trying to unite the country, while the BJP seeks to divide people on the basis of region and religion. The contest is between those who protect the Constitution and those who want to abolish it,' he told reporters.
Don't know if KCR will meet me: CM
Revanth said he was ready to seek BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao's support if directed by the Congress leadership. 'I don't know if KCR will even give me an appointment or look me in the eye, but I am willing to meet him,' he remarked.
He cited precedents of political cooperation, recalling how TDP founder NT Rama Rao supported then Prime Minister P V Narasimha Rao's candidature from Nandyal. 'Telugu leaders should show similar wisdom now and support Justice Reddy. If elected Vice-President, he will also have the chance to become President of India,' he said.
Alleging that NDA nominee CP Radhakrishnan was 'anti-Constitution,' the chief minister said Justice Reddy had earlier given recommendations on OBC welfare, which helped shape the state's move to provide 42% reservation to Backward Classes.
'He is a strong supporter of OBC issues, though he is not from the community. If Radhakrishnan wins, OBCs will suffer injustice and reservations will be under threat,' he added.
Revanth also noted Justice Reddy's background as a former Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court, Supreme Court judge and Lokayukta of Goa. 'Coming from an agricultural family, he has consistently upheld constitutional values,' he said.
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