Andhra Pradesh Congress chief YS Sharmila has condemned in direct terms YSRCP state coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy over his recent comments targeting women protesters. She referred to Sajjala as a “foolish one” while addressing a public meeting in Rayachoti in Kadapa district and alleged that the YSRCP party was repeating the same mistakes over and over again in dealing with sensitive issues.
The debate erupted following an offensive comment by a Sakshi Media anchor towards women in Amaravati, causing widespread outrage, particularly by women in the capital city. In retaliation, a majority of women protested outside Sakshi Media offices, where they burned effigies of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, Kommineni SrinivasaRao, and Krishnam Raju. They also ritually tore down posters and took away nameplates to show their extreme anger and disappointment.
Despite the peaceful nature of these protests, Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy dismissed the demonstrators and made insensitive remarks, comparing the women to “demons and monsters” and attributing their actions to a “mixed lineage.” His comments have triggered strong backlash from various quarters.
YS Sharmila strongly rebutted these remarks, saying, “He spoke like a fool. The YSRCP keeps repeating the same mistakes over and over.” She further added that it was shameful to make such insensitive comments about women without any regard for their dignity.
Again, Sharmila raised another charge against Sajjala’s son Bhargav Reddy for spreading false news against her on social media. She figured that she was demeaned as a woman and the daughter of YS Rajasekhara Reddy. She exclaimed: “YS Jagan calls everyone his sisters but fails to respect even his own sibling. How can the women of Andhra Pradesh expect respect from such leadership?
Sharmila called for strict action against Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy for his offensive remarks, underlining the importance of respecting women’s dignity and voices in the state.