‘Ashok Babu deliberately weakening united AP stir’

Shaik Abdul Basheer explains why he iscontesting against APNGO Assn chief

Ongole: Shaik Abdul Basheer who is challenging APNGOs’ association chief Ashok Babu says he is in the fray for several reasons, including intolerance to NGOs being made political tools.

The other reasons are: NGOs’ problems are not solved despite struggles; deliberate attempts are made to weaken the Samaikyandhra stir. Excerpts of his exclusive interview to The Hans India:

Why sudden decision to contest the APNGOs’ Association president’s election?

The State leader diluted the NGOs’ role in Samaikyandhra agitation, tarnishing our public image. Although the Executive members decided to continue, there was no struggle after October 15. He used it for his political career and even a suggestion to form a political JAC. Some Samaikyandhra Parirakshna Vedika, headed by Ashok Babu, are deserting him, unable to work. He failed to secure NGOs’ demands. We should agitate for five lakh contract employees. I am contesting for solving such problems.

Ashok Babu said he will enter politics?

Yes, he said so in Vijayawada, Kurnool, Gudivada. He would even suggest whom to vote. Can an employee dictate politics?.

Is a political party backing you?

There are reports that Ashok Babu has political backing. NGOs should not be stooges of any party.

Your panel members are deserting you?

They have been threatened and lured with offers of plots in Hyderabad. Withdrawal time is over. We are sure to win. Eighty per cent of NGOs are with us.

What will be the shape of future agitation?

We will agitate by involving employees, teachers, workers, intellectuals, artists by forming JACs.