The Congress government in Hyderabad is considering having a big debate about irrigation-related issues, specifically the handing over of irrigation projects to KRMB. Former minister T Harish Rao accused the Congress government of making a decision that would harm the state’s interests, while the BRS has always opposed this move. In response, Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy challenged the BRS to a detailed discussion in the Assembly, stating that his government is prepared to discuss the issue for up to 48 hours if necessary.
During a press conference with Ministers N Uttam Kumar Reddy and Konda Surekha, CM Revanth stated that BRS chief KCR must be present from beginning to end for the discussion. He emphasized that the government will not cut off the microphone and is even willing to have a joint session. Revanth also mentioned that KCR, Harish Rao, KTR, and Kavitha should attend and KCR should remain for the entire discussion without any excuses.
Revanth further stated that both he and Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy will respond from the government’s side. He emphasized the need to discuss who has caused injustice to Telangana and that their sins cannot be hidden.
According to Sections 84 to 89 of the AP Reorganisation Act, Krishna and Godavari will be handed over to the Centre with specific board members. CM Revanth pointed out that when the bill was passed in Parliament, KCR claimed that the Centre had consulted him and included his suggestions in the Act. The CM held KCR and Kesava Rao responsible for Telangana’s current losses.
Revanth mentioned that on May 27, 2022, the Telangana government agreed to the decision during the 16th KRMB meeting. The CM himself, acting as the Irrigation Minister, signed for the handover of projects during the 17th meeting on May 19, 2023. This information was also included in the Demand for Grants presented in the Assembly, with the government allocating Rs 200 crore each to KRMB and GRMB.
The Chief Minister revealed that on August 5, 2020, the Centre called for a meeting, but KCR did not attend and instead sent a letter stating that he was busy until August 20. KCR did not object to the Rayalaseema Lift scheme and delayed his response so that the AP government could issue a GO and benefit his contractor friends.
