Mahabubnagar: Former Agriculture Minister Singireddy Niranjan Reddy has slammed the Congress-led Telangana government for neglecting the serious problems faced by paddy farmers in the region. He accused the administration of ignoring farmers’ struggles while focusing on events like beauty contests.
Reddy addressed the media on Wednesday evening, expressing deep concern over the current crisis. “Farmers are suffering, but the government seems more interested in organizing glamour events than solving procurement issues,” he said.
According to Reddy, despite broken promises, farmers have worked hard to grow their crops. Now, they are stuck with piles of unsold paddy due to poor management, delays, and confusion at procurement centers.
Farmers across Mahabubnagar are holding daily protests and sit-ins. Reddy stressed that these protests are not political. “These are genuine cries for help. Farmers are desperate because their survival depends on selling their crop,” he explained.
He questioned the government’s failure to act. “Why make promises to buy the crop if you don’t plan to keep them? Why are farmers left waiting for weeks at procurement centers?” he asked. He noted that it’s taking up to 20 days just to weigh and shift the paddy to mills. In the intense summer heat, this delay is causing grains to spoil.
Reddy also pointed to the broken transport system, which has added to the chaos. He claimed that Congress party workers with no vehicles were being given transport contracts. This has led to more delays and confusion. In contrast, he said, the previous BRS government handled tenders more fairly and held contractors responsible.
Another major issue is the lack of proper gunny bags. Reddy said low-quality sacks are being used, which damage the grain. He alleged that millers are taking advantage of the situation by unfairly reducing crop weights, while officials turn a blind eye.
The former minister also highlighted the damage caused by unseasonal rains and hailstorms. Many farmers have lost their crops, but there has been no word from the government about compensation. “Does the government even know what’s happening to our farmers?” he asked.
Reddy demanded immediate relief for affected farmers and urged the government to fix the broken procurement system quickly.
He ended by criticizing government leaders for their inaction. “They travel in helicopters but won’t visit fields by road. This indifference is shameful. Farmers now regret voting for this government,” he said.
