Venkaiah Naidu calls for tougher anti-escape law, cripples ‘free’ culture.

Former Deputy Speaker M. Venkaiah Naidu on Tuesday called for stricter implementation of the anti-crossing law and pressed for amendments to the 10th Schedule of the Constitution to make it more robust.

Addressing a function here where a book on him was released, Mr. Naidu expressed concern over the growing trend of switching parties in elections. He said there should be a clear timeline for disqualification in such cases. “The process must be launched within three months after the legislature switches parties,” he said.

He noted that the problem is becoming more common, with leaders competing for defections. Referring to past instances, he said that criticism arose when leaders like CM Ramesh, Sujana Chowdary and TG Venkatesh switched parties during his tenure as Rajya Sabha Speaker. “I didn’t appreciate such a development at the time either,” he said.

Mr. Naidu pointed out that in Telangana several petitions regarding defection by MLAs remain pending before the Speaker. “It is wrong for any political party to support defection. That is my personal opinion,” he said.

The former vice president also criticized what he described as a growing tendency for political parties to promise “liberties” without fiscal prudence. He said governments must assess their financial situation before making such commitments.

“As soon as the 20th day of the month rolls around, governments try to secure funds to pay salaries by the 1st day of the next month. The chief minister himself has said that salaries cannot be paid on time. In such a situation, why announce more schemes that strain finances, especially when states are dependent on central funds?” he asked.

He said both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh were facing financial stress and urged political leaders to explain how funds would be mobilized for social programs before making an announcement. Mr. Naidu also questioned the necessity of certain schemes.

Referring to free bus travel for women, he asked whether such measures were sustainable for public transport systems. “In another state there is even talk of extending free travel to men. Can RTCs survive under such conditions?” he asked.

He emphasized that people are not looking for free schemes but better governance. “The public demands quality education, affordable health care and better living standards for the poor,” he said. Odisha Governor K. Haribabu, Tripura Governor N. Indrasena Reddy, Union Minister for Coal and Mines G. Kishan Reddy among others were present at the event.

Published – 23 Jun 2026 22:49 IST