Union Finance Minister Niramala Sitharaman criticized the BRS government for their poor fiscal and debt management. She accused them of twisting debt management conditions to blame the central government, including Prime Minister Modi. Sitharaman made these comments during a campaign event for BJP candidates N Ramachander Rao and the nominee for Jubilee Hills.
In a press conference, Sitharaman explained that if a state government wants to borrow more than the allowed limit, they must implement certain reforms, such as metering power consumption. However, it is not compulsory to install meters for agricultural motors. She pointed out that several states have implemented power reforms and exceeded their borrowing limits. Telangana, on the other hand, expects exceptions to be made by the Finance Ministry, which is not within their control. The system of debt management is in place and must be followed.
Challenging the BRS leaders to prove their claims of discrimination in fund allocation, Sitharaman criticized the misuse of funds in Telangana. She clarified that funding has not been stopped due to the absence of metering systems. She also stated that the accusation that PM Modi stopped funds is false. The government has only mentioned that certain reforms must be followed to avail additional loans with lower interest rates.
Sitharaman highlighted the financial troubles faced by Telangana, a state that was previously revenue surplus but is now burdened with debt. She questioned what the government plans to do if they are re-elected, as future generations will have to bear the debt. She also pointed out the issues in infrastructure projects like the Kaleswaram Lift Irrigation Project and the negligence in filling vacant positions in the education sector. Additionally, she criticized the high inflation rate in the state and the leakage of question papers for TSPC exams.
Overall, Sitharaman portrayed Telangana as a state in financial distress and criticized the BRS government for their mismanagement and unfulfilled promises.
