“Being a Journalist Doesn’t Mean You Can Insult Women” – Rayapati Shailaja Blasts Kommineni Over Amaravati Remarks
Amaravati, Andhra Pradesh – In a scathing response to the ongoing controversy, AP State Women’s Commission Chairperson Rayapati Shailaja has strongly condemned senior journalist Kommineni Srinivas Rao for his derogatory remarks targeting women of Amaravati during a Sakshi TV broadcast.
“Being a journalist doesn’t give you the right to insult women,” Shailaja declared, calling out Kommineni for suggesting that 150 universities in Guntur are filled with sex workers — a baseless claim reportedly based on a vague article that did not even mention a specific region.
“Political bias does not justify character assassination,” she said, accusing the journalist of weaponizing media influence for malicious defamation.
Shailaja also took aim at Kommineni’s journalistic credibility, saying, “One needs both intellect and ethics to hold the mic — not just a degree.” Her remarks echo the sentiments of protesters and civil society leaders who believe such statements cross the line between opinion and irresponsible slander.
The Commission has demanded a formal apology and is reportedly reviewing whether to initiate further legal or institutional action against both the journalist and the platform that aired the remarks.
This statement adds further pressure to the already intensifying backlash against Sakshi TV, as multiple protests continue across Andhra Pradesh, and the FIR filed in Tullur remains under active investigation.
#SamayaJyothi continues to bring live coverage and updates on this unfolding issue where journalism, ethics, and women’s dignity are now at the center of public debate.
