Hyderabad: On Sunday, many physically challenged individuals, Cheyutha pensioners, senior citizens, and destitute women came together in Kollur Village, RC Puram Mandal for a major public meeting called “Chalo Kollur – Maha Garjana.” This event in the Patancheruvu Assembly constituency was a pivotal moment for pension justice in Telangana.
Leading the gathering was Manda Krishna Madiga, a well-known activist for marginalized groups. He criticized the state government for not fulfilling its election promises. “It’s been 21 months since Revanth Reddy took power, not by family or caste influence, but by the trust of 55 lakh poor pensioners,” he stated. “Yet, they haven’t received any financial support.”
Before the 2023 elections, Telangana had 45 lakh pensioners. Since then, 10 lakh more have applied for assistance. The Congress promised Rs 6,000 monthly for the physically challenged and Rs 4,000 for elderly citizens, widows, single women, and others. Revanth Reddy had assured that pending applications would be addressed by December 9, 2023, on Sonia Gandhi’s birthday.
Manda Krishna called these promises “political stunts,” saying neither the ruling party nor the opposition brought this issue to the Assembly. Even BRS, with similar promises, has been silent.
He expressed that leaders from privileged backgrounds don’t understand the struggles of families relying on pensions. “I come from such a family. I feel their pain. That’s why I’ve traveled across Telangana since July 15, urging the government to act.”
The meeting ended with plans to intensify protests. Pensioners aim to organize dharna programs in all 33 districts and block the Hyderabad–Vijayawada highway to draw attention. The movement’s goal is to pressure the government to honor its promises and provide the overdue financial aid.
The “Maha Garjana” was more than a protest—it was a strong declaration of dignity and determination. Pensioners from all over Telangana united, demanding justice, accountability, and the fulfillment of promises that have long been ignored.
