A controversial programme aired on NTV created a major stir in Telangana politics. The show alleged that two female IAS officers offered sexual favours to a Minister in exchange for favourable postings.
The programme was seen as clearly targeting Komatireddy Venkat Reddy. Soon after, ABN journalist RK dragged Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka into the controversy.
RK claimed the issue was linked to a tussle over the Naini Coal Block tender. Beyond political angles, the episode dealt a serious blow to the morale of female IAS officers.
In his column, RK even wrote that one of the IAS officers had attempted suicide. Despite opposition noise, the government’s decision to take the matter seriously was widely noted.
The government arrested three journalists from NTV, including the channel’s Input Editor, over the gossip-based programme. Publishing such unverified and slanderous content is unacceptable for any media house.
It is difficult to believe that the editorial team acted without informing the management. Such a programme would not have aired without approval from the top level.
While reporters, editors, and the anchor could have refused, they did not. However, the biggest question remains unanswered.
Why was NTV Chairman Narendra Chowdary spared?
This selective action has led to criticism that the Revanth Reddy government avoided acting against media owners and limited accountability to employees alone.
When arrests were made, reports surfaced in other media houses claiming Narendra Chowdary had absconded. NTV dismissed these claims, stating that its Chairman was attending office daily.
Even then, authorities made no attempt to hold him accountable. With the remand for journalists now rejected, the issue appears to have reached its end.
The government displayed public posturing, while the channel claimed a moral victory. For many observers, the larger question of accountability remains unresolved.
