Political Diary

In a political career spanning nearly two decades, the four-time Congress MLA from the Balkonda Assembly constituency, K.R.Suresh Reddy, assumed charge as one of the youngest Speaker of AP's 12th Assembly. Since the time he began his political career as a mandal-level leader in 1984, he has come a long way. Mr. Suresh Reddy, won his fourth straight election from agriculture rich Balkonda constituency, and had a pleasant surprise when his name cropped as the probable for the prestigious Speaker's post. The very fact that Mr. Suresh Reddy had the backing of the entire 12th Assembly speaks volumes about his capabilities.

By assuming charge as Speaker, Mr. Suresh Reddy become the first leader from Nizamabad district to have occupied the coveted post. His elevation as the Speaker at a very young age has been welcomed by all political parties. Forty-five-year-old Suresh Reddy, began his political career as the mandal Youth Congress president in 1984. He got his major break in 1989 when the former Chief Minister, M. Channa Reddy, nominated him as the candidate from Balkonda constituency. He went on to win the 1994, 1999 and 2004 elections with convincing margin equaling the record of former Finance Minister, Argul Rajaram, who had represented the Balkonda constituency for four terms. During his stint as an MLA, he was the Library Committee Chairman of the Assembly from 1990 to 1993. In 1997, he assumed the charge of Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee and served as the Congress party whip from 2000-2003.

Soft-spoken, well educated and known for his oratory skills, Mr. Suresh Reddy, created a niche for himself in the political circles. A non-controversial leader, he has been in the forefront of any debate in the Assembly and his presentation often won accolades from even the opposition party leaders and above all from his Excellency the President of India APJ Abdul Kalam.

On resuming his responsibility as the Speaker, Mr. Suresh Reddy expressed, "Till a few minutes ago, I belonged to a particular political party. But now I belong to the entire House. Irrespective of political affiliations each and every member is dear and near to me. Rules and conventions will be followed judiciously in a non-partisan manner. Maintenance of decorum and dignity shall be my priority" he said to thump of desks by members.