Race Heats Up: Top Journalists Eye Key Post
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Following the appointment of Ayodhya Reddy as the RTI Commissioner, the pivotal position of Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has become a hot topic in media circles. This prestigious role within the Chief Minister’s Office is attracting intense competition from senior journalists. While close associates of CM Revanth Reddy are actively vying for the position, it has now emerged that seasoned journalists from leading Telugu dailies like Eenadu, Sakshi, Andhra Jyothy, and even the English daily The Hindu are also in the fray. With each contender employing their own strategies, the question of who will ultimately secure this coveted post remains a subject of much speculation and discussion within political and media circles.
Fierce Competition: High Stakes for Influential Role
The CPRO post holds immense significance. The individual appointed to this role is a constant presence at all meetings attended by the Chief Minister, responsible for disseminating crucial information to the media. This proximity to the CM makes the position as influential as that of a minister or a senior IAS officer, and in some instances, even more so. Consequently, numerous senior journalists have set their sights on this prize, with discreet lobbying efforts underway. Besides the prominent name from the Reddy community in the Palamuru district and the BC journalist working in Hyderabad, the entry of top-tier journalists from both Telugu and English media, as well as senior figures from electronic media, has intensified the competition considerably.
Status Quo Option: Trust in Current Team?
Amidst the intense competition, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is reportedly considering an alternative: maintaining the current public relations setup without immediately appointing a new CPRO.
The Chief Minister is said to hold a positive view of the existing team of PROs, including Bolgam Srinivas and Vijay Kumar, both of whom have a strong background working for prominent newspapers, having started their journalistic careers at Eenadu. Sources suggest that the CM believes this experienced team is efficiently handling their responsibilities. Their deep understanding of various subjects ensures effective coordination between the government and the media, and their promptness in preparing reports on key issues is also appreciated. This has led to the consideration of whether there is an immediate need to bring in a new face. However, the final decision rests with the Chief Minister, and there is a possibility that the current CPRO, Bolgam Srinivas, might be entrusted with the additional responsibilities of the CPRO.
