Telangana govt officer demands three months paid leave to contest election from Yadadri

HYDERABAD: In an unconventional move, a 43-year-old agriculture extension officer (AEO) from Yadadri Bhuvanagiri has submitted a unique application for leave.

K Parusharamulu, the AEO, is seeking three months’ leave with salary and service protection to contest from Bhongir Lok Sabha constituency. His application, addressed to the principal secretary of the agriculture department, was filed on Tuesday.

In his application, Parusharamulu said that if he either lost the election or completed his five-year Minister of Parliament term, he should be reinstated in his job. However, this request seems to challenge service rules, which prohibit Government servants from being associated with political parties or movements. Despite this, Parusharamulu believes he had the right to seek leave for election participation.

Expressing his determination, Parusharamulu emphasised that if his application was rejected, the department must provide reasons. He even threatened legal action, suggesting he would take the matter to the Supreme Court if necessary. He drew attention to perceived discrepancies, noting that women were granted six-month leave with salary, and agriculture diploma holders could study with departmental salary support.

Parusharamulu's decision to contest stemmed from personal grievances as well. Despite 21 years of service, court orders, and Government directives, he claimed that he had not been promoted to agriculture officer. Hailing from Nakrekal, he disclosed his intention to run as an independent candidate, with the final decision on party affiliation pending departmental approval.