Another star couple in politics: Rajsekhar joins Cong

Hyderabad, Jul 14 (UNI) Even as Telugu film star Chiranjeevi is all set to emulate Tollywood icon and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N T Rama Rao, launching his own political party next month, another star couple Rajasekhar and his wife Jeevitha today joined the Congress. They joined the party in the presence of All India Congress Committee (AICC) General Secretary and In-charge Andhra Affairs M Veerappa Moily, Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy and PCC President D Srinivas.

Mr Moily welcomed them by giving membership as part of the drive launched to beef up the party.

Later, talking to newspersons, Mr Rajasekhar said they were inspired by the welfare and developmental schemes initiated by the UPA government at the Centre and the Rajasekhar Reddy government in the state.

He said he wanted to strengthen the hands of the Chief Minister and serve the party and the people.

Asked if he would contest against superstar Chiranjeevi if need be in the next elections in the state, he said, ''if the party instructs me to contest against him, I will definitely do so. I will obey the instructions of the high command and act accordingly.'' UNI BR VA PDT KN1824