19-01-2025 12:00:00 AM
A state cannot decide on a scheme unilaterally and expect immediate funding from New Delhi-Kishan Reddy Union Minister
mahesh avadutha I hyderabad
Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy shared encouraging news for the Revanth Reddy-led Congress government in Telangana, stating that the Central government is ready to extend its cooperation for the Metro Rail Phase-2 project.
"The Central government will support Hyderabad Metro Phase-2. It is my responsibility to assist. The Chief Secretary has already spoken to me and requested time to share the project's details. Once the state government provides the necessary information, we will move forward. Currently, five to six states, including Telangana, are pitching for Metro Rail projects. The final decision will be taken by the Union Cabinet," said Kishan Reddy during an informal interaction with the media at the BJP state office in Nampally on Saturday.
Regarding the Metro's first phase, Reddy highlighted that the Centre had contributed ₹1,250 crores. "However, the BRS government stopped the project from being completed near the Assembly. Additionally, the MIM opposed the Metro route in the Old City. Akbaruddin Owaisi even challenged the project, stating that he would ensure it would not be built there. Ironically, these same individuals are now strongly advocating for Phase-2 routes," he remarked.
On the Regional Ring Road and Regional Ring Rail projects, Reddy stated that the Centre is ready to assist the state government. However, he pointed out that the final alignment for these projects has not been finalized, with the alignment changing repeatedly—first under the BRS government and now under the Congress government. He added that land acquisition, which is the state government’s responsibility, remains a significant hurdle.
Speaking about the Musi Rejuvenation Project, Reddy expressed the need for the initiative but emphasized that the concerns of underprivileged sections must be addressed. When asked about potential central funding, he clarified that any new scheme must align with the existing framework and norms of the Union government. "A state cannot decide on a scheme unilaterally and expect immediate funding from New Delhi," he explained.
Addressing questions about the Centre and Prime Minister Narendra Modi allocating significant funds and schemes to Andhra Pradesh, including the recent ₹11,500 crore boost for the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, Reddy defended the move, stating that it was in line with the promises made under the AP Reorganisation Act, which was enacted by the Congress government.
"Some people question what I or the BJP government at the Centre have done for Telangana. The BJP has brought significant developments, such as the Zaheerabad Industrial Park, the Rail Coach Factory, and the Turmeric Board, to Telangana. These are just a few examples," he said.
BJP's stand on Panchayat elections Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy also announced that the BJP will contest all Panchayat elections without alliances. He criticized both the Congress and BRS for neglecting Gram Panchayats. Reddy pointed out that the previous BRS government failed to release funds and settle bills for Panchayats, while the current Congress government has not fulfilled its promises.
He emphasized that village development projects, including graveyards and Rythu Vedikas, have been largely supported by the Modi government’s central funds, especially through the NREGS scheme, over the past 11 years.
Bats for One Nation One Election in 2029
Kishan Reddy advocated for "One Nation, One Election" to reduce expenses and save time caused by staggered elections. Addressing defections, he emphasized the need for ethical practices, urging leaders to resign before switching parties. He criticized Congress's inconsistent policies and pointed out discrepancies in leaders' affiliations in assembly records. Kishan Reddy stressed ethical politics, stating that BJP’s candidates are chosen based on merit and contribution.
Further, he said that leaders like Eatala Rajender, who contested multiple elections, are eligible for leadership roles. Also, he stressed the Revanth Reddy card will not work for Congress in Delhi assembly elections.
BJP is confident of winning three MLC seats in Telangana with strong candidates like Malka Komuraiah, known for his contribution to education, the minister said. He urged the media to fairly highlight the BJP's development contributions, such as railway station upgrades, RRR projects, and funds for textile parks and other projects.