The Telangana Assembly has implemented a new prohibition on photography and videography within its premises. Warning signs regarding the ban have been prominently placed around the Assembly compound, sparking criticism from opposition parties, who view the move as a step toward curtailing transparency and accountability in governance.
This decision comes in the wake of earlier restrictions on live TV streaming of Assembly sessions, which also drew sharp reactions from political opponents and civil society groups.
Opposition parties, including the Congress, have strongly opposed the ban, accusing the ruling Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government of fostering an undemocratic atmosphere. Critics argue that such measures are inconsistent with the principles of transparency and freedom in governance, which are essential in a democracy.
Also Read: Winter Session of Telangana Assembly to Feature Intense Debate on Key Issues
The Congress party has particularly targeted the BRS, alleging hypocrisy in its criticism of the Congress-led central government. “The Congress’s slogan of Praja Palana (People’s Governance) is being implemented in spirit across the country, but the BRS is using this as an opportunity to erode democratic values in Telangana,” said a senior Congress leader.
The BRS party, in turn, has lashed out at the Congress, labeling their complaints as baseless. “The Congress’s lofty promises about freedom in governance are confined to paper. In reality, they have implemented restrictions on democratic practices,” a BRS spokesperson said, defending the ban as a necessary measure to maintain decorum and ensure the Assembly’s sanctity.
This prohibition on photography and videography adds to the existing ban on live TV streaming of Assembly proceedings, a decision that was implemented earlier this year. Both measures have been criticized as limiting public access to the legislative process, raising concerns about the lack of transparency in the functioning of the state’s highest decision-making body.
Civil society organizations and political analysts have expressed concern over the increasing restrictions. “Legislative bodies are the cornerstone of democracy, and their proceedings must remain accessible to the public. These bans set a troubling precedent,” said political analyst Dr. Kavitha Rao.
The debate over the ban on photography and videography in the Telangana Assembly premises reflects broader tensions between ensuring order within legislative institutions and upholding democratic principles of openness and transparency. While the ruling BRS party remains firm in its stance, the opposition and citizens are likely to continue pressing for greater accessibility and accountability in governance.
With Assembly sessions being a critical platform for debating and shaping public policy, the balance between decorum and transparency will remain a key issue in Telangana’s political discourse.
(This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed. Raavi Media takes no responsibility or liability of any nature. Raavi Media management/ythisnews.com can alter or delete the content without notice for any reason.)
