Setback to TRS’ Vemulawada MLA, Centre Says He Is A German Citizen

In a major setback to TRS MLA from Vemulawada Chennamaneni Ramesh, the Central Home Department has categorically said that he continues to be a German citizen. A statement by Central Home Department's joint secretary said that Chennamaneni, who has worked as a professor in Germany, is still a citizen of Germany.

This will affect his continuance as Vemulawada MLA as a foreign citizen cannot become a lawmaker in India. In fact, BJP leader Adi Srinivas has approached the High Court asking that his membership of the legislative assembly be cancelled as he is a foreign citizen. The High Court in 2013 had set aside his election and categorically said that he is not an Indian citizen. Chennamaneni Ramesh has secured a stay from the Supreme Court, contested in 2014 and won again. Adi Srinivas then approached the Supreme Court seeking vacation of the stay. The Apex Court, which heard both the sides, directed the Central Government to submit a report on his nationality to the High Court within three months. The Centre on Tuesday submitted its report, which has clearly said that Chennamaneni Ramesh is not an Indian citizen and that he continues to be a German citizen.

Chennamaneni Ramesh is son of several times MLA and freedom fighter Chennamaneni Rajeswara Rao and the nephew of Maharashtra Governor Ch Vidyasagar Rao.