BJP Calls Revanth's Poll Age Proposal a Diversionary Tactic

The Telangana BJP has sharply criticised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy's proposal to lower the minimum age for contesting Lok Sabha and State Assembly elections from 25 years to 21 years, alleging that the move is intended to shift public attention away from the Congress government's failure to fulfil key promises made to the state's youth.

Addressing the media in Hyderabad, Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao described the proposal as "diversionary politics," arguing that the government should focus on resolving pressing issues affecting students and unemployed youth instead of triggering a fresh constitutional debate. He claimed that despite being in power for over two and a half years, the Congress government had failed to implement several major commitments made during the elections.

Defending the existing eligibility criteria, Ramchander Rao said the 25-year minimum age was established by the framers of the Constitution, including Dr B.R. Ambedkar, to ensure that lawmakers possess sufficient maturity and public experience. While encouraging youth participation in politics is important, he said any change to the constitutional framework should be approached with caution.

The BJP leader accused the state government of neglecting higher education, alleging that nearly 20 lakh students continue to suffer due to pending fee reimbursement dues. He claimed that around ₹12,000 crore remains unpaid, forcing several institutions to withhold students' certificates and affecting their prospects for higher education and employment. He also alleged that the state's 17 government universities were facing acute shortages of funds and teaching staff.

Ramchander Rao further said that several Congress promises, including a ₹4,000 monthly unemployment allowance, free scooters for women college students, a Youth Commission, and 75% reservation for locals in private-sector jobs, remain unfulfilled. Holding the government accountable for these alleged failures, he demanded that the Chief Minister step aside from handling the education portfolio.

The BJP leader also questioned the Congress' commitment to youth empowerment, saying the party should promote younger leaders within its own organisation if it genuinely believes in youth leadership. He added that the BJP has consistently provided opportunities to emerging leaders and remains committed to addressing the aspirations of young Indians.

Meanwhile, the Telangana government has announced that it will convene a special Assembly session to pass a resolution urging the Centre to amend the law and reduce the minimum contesting age to 21 years. Since the eligibility criteria are governed by the Constitution and the Representation of the People Act, any such change would require approval by Parliament before it can come into effect.