A criminal case has been filed against Andhra Pradesh Minor Irrigation Minister TG Venkatesh by a retired IAS officer BV Papa Rao for making inflammatory and provocative statements against bureaucrats.

Recently, the minister, while addressing a public meeting in his native Kurnool on July 13, remarked that non-performing bureaucrats should be shot dead. Papa Rao, who served as Home Secretary of Assam and also with the United Nations during his career, said in his complaint to Medchal police under Cyberabad Police Commissionerate, that the minister's statements attracted criminal liability under Sections 189 and 124 A, read with Sections 107, 115, 503 and 511 of Indian Penal Code.

After the remarks kicked up a controversy, the minister remained unapologetic and went on to say that even non-performing politicians should also be shot dead. He also refused to retract his statements. Papa Rao pointed out, "It clearly indicates that Venkatesh does not believe in Rule of Law. A minister, who has taken solemn oath to function in accordance with Constitution of India, making such public statements, will have serious and dire consequences on our criminal justice system." By making such provocative remarks, the minister clearly encourages gullible public to take the law in to their own hands. He has endangered the lives of the government officials, who according to him are non performers," Papa Rao contended in his complaint.