Uproar in Andhra Assembly over 'call money sex' scandal, YSR Congress demands immediate discussion

Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly witnessed uproar with protests inside and outside assembly as the Opposition insisted on immediate debate on the controversial 'call money sex' scandal.

YSR Congress MLAs raised slogans against the government, alleging the involvement of ruling Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leaders in the racket. "It's a very big racket. By not having discussion, the government is trying to dilute the issue. The pictures show the scandal has full patronage of the TDP leadership," YSRCP MLA Roja said.

In a 'picture war' in the assembly, YSR Congress MLAs displayed pictures of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu with an alleged accused in the case. In retaliation, ruling TDP MLAs displayed pictures of Jagan with alleged criminals.

The CM had ordered a judicial probe into the 'call money' scandal and said that the issue will be taken up for debate on Friday.

"Opposition is only throwing allegations. Our CM has said we will take strict actions, no matter which party they belong to. Opposition doesn't want debate because they will be exposed," Minister Social and Tribal welfare, empowerment Kishore Babu said.

The racket surfaced recently in Vijayawada when a women alleged that she was forced to give back Rs 6 lakh for borrowing Rs 1.5 lakh. Following the complaint, several victims came forward alleging that they were sexually exploited by the accused for not repaying the loans. The money lenders illegally demanded 100% to 200% interest rate.

In a massive crackdown, the police has so far arrested over 100 money lenders, which include leaders of various political parties.

"Police is investigating the issue. DGP has made special teams. We will bring things to logical conclusion," Commissioner of Police, Vijayawada Gautam Sawang said.

Leaders across political parties are under investigation for their alleged role in call money scam. Even though both, ruling and opposition parties are concerned, it has become a big political issue. The big question remains, if the real culprits running the racket will be put behind the bars.