Mudragada Padmanabham resolves to go on indefinite fast from March 11

Kapu leader Mudragada Padmanabham has renewed his resolve to go on an indefinite hunger strike from March 11 to protest against the Chandrababu Naidu government's inaction and partial action. Following his earlier fast-unto-death, which was given up after the government gave six assurances, Padmanabham on Friday alleged that loans of the Kapu Welfare Corporation were only being given to those who had yellow shirts (TDP members). There was nothing in it for the Kapu community leaders who took part in the Tuni agitation. Besides, cases were being pursued against them for the large-scale Tuni violence. `Don't we have the right to ask for meeting our demands?' he asked of Chief Minister Chadnrababu Naidu. Quoting Dr B.R. Ambedkar, Padmanabham said the founding father of the Constitution had gone to London to plead for reservations for the Kapus, as they were a backward community before Independence itself. `By giving just Rs 40,000 each, you can't wash off your hands,' he said, quipping it would be less than the cost of your son, Nara Lokesh's spectacles. What can one do with Rs 40,000? What business could one start with Rs 40,000? he asked. Padmanabham said the Kapu, Balija and Vaddara communities were among the backward and seeking quota and funds for survival. On the other hand, the Kapus were being insulted and humiliated calling us reserved category etc. Just by associating us with Jagan-garu (YCP leader), you cannot wish away the Kapu problem, he added. `Jaganmohan Reddy is young, and I have more political experience than jagan's age,' the Kapu leader said. The Kapu leader said the government should implement the six assurances it had given to the community before March 10. Otherwise he would go on indefinite fast again. Padmanabham continuously aimed the press conference at the Chief Minister. `I was also elected like you to the State Assembly. I know what you really are.'