KTR Demands Farmers’ Dues, Questions ₹1.5 Lakh Crore Musi Project

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) has accused the Congress government in Telangana of corruption and neglecting farmers’ concerns, alleging that Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy is acting as an ATM for Congress leader and Lok Sabha Opposition Leader Rahul Gandhi. He demanded a comprehensive investigation into alleged irregularities in the radial road project and the immediate release of pending financial assistance to farmers.

KTR alleged that the radial road project’s tendering process was compromised, citing claims raised by Congress MLA Komatireddy Rajagopal Reddy and construction businessman Nama Ramesh. He said Ramesh had alleged that he faced pressure and threats from the Chief Minister’s Office to prevent him from submitting a tender. KTR accused the government of operating on a 30% commission model and alleged that the proceeds were reaching the Congress leadership.

Questioning the government’s priorities amid agricultural distress, KTR pointed to drought conditions declared in 365 mandals and concerns over the availability of irrigation water and electricity. He criticised the reported plan to spend ₹1.5 lakh crore on the Musi beautification project while farmers continued to await financial assistance.

He demanded the release of three pending instalments of Rythu Bandhu, along with investment support for the upcoming Rabi season. He also urged the government to extend assistance to eligible tenant farmers, recalling Rahul Gandhi’s promise to cover 21 lakh beneficiaries in the state.

KTR further called for the implementation of the Congress government’s promise to provide agricultural labourers ₹1,000 monthly. He demanded payment of accumulated dues for 36 months, amounting to ₹36,000 per eligible beneficiary.

KTR urged the government to suspend the Musi River rejuvenation project, alleging that the detailed project report had not been made public and adequate public consultation had not taken place. Citing a pending case before the National Green Tribunal (NGT), he questioned the urgency of proceeding with the project and demanded that its funds be redirected towards farmers’ welfare.

He also recalled a BRS delegation’s June 19 visit to the Kannepalli pump house on the Godavari, where it reportedly observed a downstream flow of around one lakh cusecs. KTR said the government should have used available infrastructure to improve water availability and prepare for potential El Niño-related challenges.