TDP withdraws from all-party visit to Obulapuram mines

Hyderabad, Aug 13 (UNI) Even as the main opposition Telugu Desam Party withdrew from the all-party delegation visiting the Obulapuram iron ore mines site in Anantapur district on the second day today, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Rajasekhara Reddy accused the TDP of enacting a ''drama'' with ulterior political motives.

Contending that ''illegal'' mining was on, TDP Legislature Party Deputy Leader N Janardhana Reddy insisted that the delegation should visit the site today also. When other parties declined, the TDP withdrew from the delegation.

While CPI floor leader Ch Venkata Reddy and CPI (M) floor leader N Narasimhaiah said there seemed to be no illegal mining in the area, the TDP leader claimed that he had enough evidence to show that there was illegal mining.

Taking strong objection to TDP's decision, Dr Reddy said ''while all parties went in one way, the TDP went the other way.'' ''When prohibitory orders were in force, it (TDP) tried to storm the area and punched policemen, and made a hue and cry that the police had lathicharged them. When a delegation was taken to Obulapuram, the TDP is backing out,'' he added.

UNI