The Praja Rajyam chief, Mr K. Chiranjeevi, on Wednesday, appealed to the state government to give top priority to provide safe drinking water. Participating in the debate on Motion of Thanks to the Governor’s Address, Mr Chiranjeevi lamented the inability of the governments to provide water despite technological advancements. Acute drinking water crisis was forcing women to walk several miles even in districts like East and West Godavari. The Governor’s address is a dream but turns a nightmare on facing reality, he added.

Mr Chiranjeevi also said he would not mind Congress remaining in power forever as long as it catered to the needs of poor. The PR chief questioned the government on cancelling the ration cards terming them bogus after claiming credit for issuing record number of ration cards. Mr Chiranjeevi said the belt shops should be phased out.

While appreciating the Chief Minister for appointing Ms Sabita Indira Reddy as the home minister, he said a woman should be posted as excise minister to counter the damage caused by liquor in family life.