Roja's remarks against TRS chief spark protests

Actress and Telugu Mahila president Roja faced angry protests from Telangana Rashtra Samithi leaders on Friday, for making what the TRS called provocative and derogatory remarks against TRS chief and former Union minister K Chandrasekhar Rao.

Participating at an all-party meeting on 'liquor ban and control' organised by Jana Chaitanya Vedika in Hyderabad, Roja said of Rao: "He drinks at the bar at his house all the night and holds darbars at the party office during the day."

Her comments evoked protests from TRS legislator Nayani Narasimha Reddy and other activists, who were present at the meeting. The TRS leader and his supporters, including women activists, objected to the comments. In the midst of heated arguments and counter-arguments, the meeting ended abruptly.

Narasimha Reddy said the Telugu Desam Party was responsible for liquor flow in the state. He said that Roja's insult to Telangana leaders was a sign of the arrogance of Andhra leaders. Later, TRS activists burnt the effigy of Roja outside the Press Club.

Roja also criticised the Lok Satta Party, stating that it was taking up the issue of ban on liquor to gain political mileage now, though the organisation had been in politics for the last 10 years.

Reacting to Roja's comments, Lok Satta strongly protested and alleged that the TDP was responsible for belt (liquor) shops, which were started during its regime. Lok Satta also said that "such statements betray inexperience and irresponsible attitude of Roja. "Lok Satta samstha is in existence for the last 10 years, whereas Lok Satta Party was formed recently," it added.