Former AP Speaker Kodela dead

Hyderabad: Former speaker of Andhra Pradesh Kodela Siva Prasad Rao died on Monday afternoon. Reportedly, the senior Telugu Desam (TD) leader was shifted to the Basava Tarakam hospital in Hyderabad after his family found him in a critical condition at his Banjara Hill Residence.

According to family members, his condition was critical when he was shifted to the hospital, where he died. Doctors at the Basavatarakam hospital confirmed the death of Dr Kodela Sivaprsada Rao. However, the reasons for his death are still unknown.

Recently, Dr Kodela who is a six-time legislator and served as the first speaker of AP Assembly post bifurcation had suffered a stroke and had recovered.

Dr Kodela was a home minister in NTR's cabinet in 1985 and held several portfolios in former chief minister N. Chandrababu Naidu’s Cabinet.

Several senior leaders and political parties in both the Telugu states expressed shock over his demise.

Telangana BJP Leader Krishna Saagar Rao said he is shocked to know that the former minister and former AP speaker is no more. He added, “I extend heartfelt condolences on the unfortunate demise of this senior politician. May his soul rest in peace. I believe this forced death is a testimony to the ongoing bitter and contemptuous politics of Andhra Pradesh. It’s quite unfortunate.”