New Delhi, March 25: Araku MP Dr. Tanuja Rani has expressed deep disappointment over being excluded from the inauguration of the Araku Coffee Stall in Parliament. She stated that, despite being the local Member of Parliament, she was not invited to the event, which she found highly unfortunate.
Addressing the media in Delhi alongside MPs Pilli Subhash Chandra Bose and Golla Babu Rao, she said that it was shocking that such discrimination took place in Parliament, which is considered the temple of democracy.
She questioned whether she was deliberately excluded from the event because she is a tribal MP. Dr. Tanuja Rani announced that she would file a formal complaint with the Lok Sabha Speaker regarding the issue.
She further stated that Araku coffee is internationally renowned, and she had expected to be invited to the event as the MP representing the region. She also suggested that at least ten tribal farmers who cultivate coffee beans should have been invited so that their hard work behind this premium coffee could be acknowledged on a global platform. Additionally, she proposed that the traditional Dhinsa dance of Araku’s tribal communities could have been performed at the event to introduce their rich culture at the national level.
Dr. Tanuja Rani pointed out that Araku is not just famous for its coffee but also for its naturally grown turmeric and rare aromatic spices. The event could have been an opportunity to showcase these unique products to Parliamentarians. However, the inauguration was conducted selectively, with certain invited guests, while she, the local MP, was left out. She stated that a complaint is being submitted to the Speaker and a letter is also being sent to the Prime Minister. She expressed hope that Parliament would respond to this discrimination.
Rajya Sabha MP Golla Babu Rao pointed out that Andhra Pradesh's Tribal Welfare Minister Sandhya Rani and some MPs from the state were invited to the inauguration. After the launch, the Speaker and MPs enjoyed the coffee and appreciated its taste. However, he questioned why no one asked why the Araku MP was not invited.
He raised concerns about whether Dr. Tanuja Rani was excluded because she is a tribal woman or because she was elected from the YSRCP party. He described this situation as deeply concerning, especially when such incidents occur within Parliament itself.
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