Deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka Defends Singareni, Slams Opposition Over ‘Misinformation Campaign’

Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka on Sunday launched a strong defence of the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) , accusing opposition parties of spreading misinformation and attempting to damage the reputation of the state-owned coal mining giant for political purposes.

To counter allegations made against the company, Bhatti Vikramarka, accompanied by IT and Industries Minister Duddilla Sridhar Babu , visited the Srirampur Open Cast Coal Mine in Mancherial district. The ministers conducted a detailed inspection of mining operations, coal transportation records, safety systems, stockyards and other facilities to assess the ground reality and place facts before the public.

Addressing the media after the visit, the Deputy Chief Minister said the government would not tolerate any attempt to undermine the hard work, dedication and self-respect of Singareni workers. He criticised opposition leaders for making what he described as baseless allegations against the company and its management, stating that such remarks were unfair to thousands of employees whose efforts have contributed to Singareni’s growth and success.

Bhatti asserted that the inspection was not intended as a political exercise but was aimed at ensuring transparency and dispelling misconceptions. He alleged that certain opposition leaders were presenting misleading information in communications sent to the Union government and were deliberately attempting to create doubts about the company's functioning.

Describing Singareni as one of Telangana’s most valuable assets , he said any effort to weaken its credibility would be against the interests of the state and its people. He emphasised that the company belongs to the people of Telangana and warned that the government would remain vigilant against those seeking to exploit or undermine it. “We will not allow vultures to cast their eyes on Singareni,” he remarked, asserting that the state would protect the institution and its resources.

During the review, company officials informed the ministers that the Srirampur Open Cast Mine has sufficient coal reserves to sustain production for another 28 years . Bhatti also highlighted several welfare initiatives, including a Rs 1.25-crore accident insurance scheme for Singareni workers, which he described as the first of its kind in the country.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to employee welfare, he said efforts were being made to provide world-class healthcare facilities for workers and high-quality education opportunities for their children, ensuring the long-term well-being and prosperity of the Singareni workforce.