Senior YSR Congress party leader and Andhra Pradesh minister for power, environment and forests Balineni Srinivasa Reddy’s sudden tour to Russia in a private jet has become a hot topic for discussion on the social media platforms on Monday.
Balineni’s staff posted a few pictures of his private flight, appears to be very luxurious, on the social media with a caption saying: “Live life without excuses and enjoy travelling.”
There is no confirmation as to whether it was his official trip or unofficial. Though the minister himself has revealed that he is going to Russia, there was no information that whether any officials of the power or forest departments travelling along with him. The purpose of his Russian tour has not been revealed.
Normally, when a minister goes on a foreign visit, he would have to take prior permission from the General Administration Department, which gives approval after informing all the concerned officials.
There is a procedure for the official trip of the ministers and officials. Even if the minister goes on a personal visit, he has to follow the same procedure.
It is not clear whether Balineni has followed such a procedure, as the government orders are not being placed in the public domain. So, there is no confirmation on whether it is an official or unofficial trip.
But if one were go by the caption, it appears Balineni has gone to Russia on a personal purpose. Still, it remains an interesting topic for discussion as to what interests Balineni has in Russia, of all the places. Moreover, this is not the season for travel to Russia, as mostly tourists prefer Europe during this period.
So far, there is no explanation from the government in this regard.
