KCR’s Cabinet Delay Unwelcome
Kommineni Srinivasa Rao
To everyone's surprise, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) has delayed the appointment of cabinet ministers in the new government. In his long political career since 1983, KCR scaled new heights in 2014 and now, he created history by getting re-elected with a resounding victory.It is, however, not known as to why he is running the government without a cabinet.
Irrespective of whether the delay is caused due to his belief in Vaastu, Astrology or for other political reasons, it is not a good sign. In this context, an English daily recently drew a parallel between KCR's cabinet with TDP founder NTR's decision to expel all of his cabinet ministers and tour Assam and other States. Later, amid much criticism on the delay in appointing new ministers, the Congress party took the issue to the masses with protests.
KCR, after swearing-in along with Home Minister Mahmood Ali, is running a government without cabinet ministers. However, he is not touring other States. He is exercising his right in the capacity of a CM by reviewing certain issues in the ministries. Also, there is practically no one who can question KCR's decision-making in the current circumstances. But, if KCR goes on to take advantage of his powers, he will be in a situation of political disadvantage in the future.
It could be perceived as a weak government, that which doesn't have cabinet ministers appointed ten days after the government is formed. Undoubtedly, his decision of delaying the appointment of ministers is not in the right spirit even though he is a powerful leader with no match. There is every chance that he could face criticism over his autocratic decisions despite enjoying massive public support.
KCR sent out a message with the appointment of his son, KTR, as the TRS working president, a message that suggests that KCR is the head of the government and KTR the head of TRS. It is also interesting to see whether Harish Rao would be given a ministerial berth. In reality, activities like these could hamper the peaceful environment within the party.
Ultimately, Harish Rao could be given a ministerial post. But, after playing a pro-active role in the election campaign, the Siddipet MLA could certainly feel left out now. Also, KCR attracted criticism with his review meetings in Irrigation department.
However, this is nothing new for KCR. Certainly, he remembers the days when the then CM NTR in 1989 toured other States without even appointing a new cabinet. As a person who had conducted training classes to TDP workers, he is well aware of democratic values. With the kind of popularity KCR has, he should be able to lead a group of ministers, for his own good.
