Public Money splurge: One-Day MP Huddle costs Rs 13.59 Lakh

In a revelation that's raising eyebrows and fueling debates on fiscal responsibility, the Telangana government splurged a whopping Rs. 13,59,217 on a single-day meeting of Members of Parliament (MPs) from Telangana held on March 8 at Praja Bhavan. Chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Bhatti Vikramarka, the gathering saw 10 MPs in attendance—eight from Congress and two from BJP—discussing state matters in a session lasting just a few hours. But it's the extravagant expenses, detailed in official government order (GO), that have ignited public scrutiny, especially amid pending employee dues and unpaid bills.

While the said meeting was held on March 8, the amount of nearly 13.6 lakhs was sanctioned a couple of days ago, a good nine months after the meeting was over.

The breakdown paints a picture of opulence funded by public coffers. The afternoon lunch alone, catered by the luxurious Taj Krishna Hotel, cost Rs. 8,43,700—translating to an eye-watering Rs. 84,370 per MP. Imagine that: a meal pricier than many families' monthly budgets! Additional arrangements included Rs. 1,95,800 to Hotel The Plaza, Rs. 3,06,517 to NM Company for miscellaneous setups, Rs. 6,000 to Anjali Florist for welcome bouquets, and Rs. 7,200 to Santosh Enterprises. Other incidental costs pushed the tally to another Rs. 5 lakhs, making the total spend a symbol of excess in a venue already equipped with all facilities.

Critics are quick to point out the irony. While the government lavishes on high-profile events, essential payments like employee arrears remain stalled, highlighting a disconnect between rhetoric and reality. As one observer quipped, "Public money turning into representatives' feast—proving the old adage that rulers' funds flow like stones in water."

With elections looming and economic pressures mounting, will such revelations prompt reforms? The public awaits answers, as this 'modest' meet exposes the high cost of political hospitality.

Extravagant One-Day expense

The Telangana government spent Rs. 13,59,217 on a single-day MPs' meeting on March 8 at Praja Bhavan, attended by just 10 MPs (8 Congress, 2 BJP), chaired by Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka.

Lunch catered by Taj Krishna cost Rs. 8,43,700: Additional bills included Rs. 1,95,800 to Hotel The Plaza, bouquets, and setups—totaling lavish spending amid pending employee dues and unpaid bills.