Section 22A, Fee Dues, Farmer Woes: Harish Rao Alleges Opposition Being Silenced

BRS MLA Tanniru Harish Rao has accused the Telangana government of suppressing the Opposition’s voice during the ongoing Assembly sessions, alleging that it is diverting public attention instead of allowing discussions on pressing issues. He said the BRS was ready to raise concerns affecting farmers, unemployed youth and students, besides the Section 22A issue, but was not being given an opportunity to speak.

Speaking to the media in Hyderabad on Thursday, Harish Rao alleged that important public issues were not being properly debated in the Assembly and that the government was avoiding answers to questions raised by the Opposition. He claimed that BRS MLAs were being suspended to prevent them from raising people's concerns and said the party was prepared to discuss all major issues on the Assembly floor.

Harish Rao said farmers were facing difficulties due to urea shortages, power supply problems and incomplete loan waivers. He also accused the government of placing lakhs of privately owned properties belonging to farmers on the prohibited list under Section 22A.

He said the BRS was conducting protests across Telangana over the issue and that its MLAs were ready to demand justice for affected farmers in the Assembly.

The former minister also criticised the government over pending student fee reimbursement dues, claiming that nearly 30 lakh students were being affected. He said SC, ST and BC students were particularly vulnerable, with some struggling to obtain certificates needed after securing jobs.

Harish Rao further claimed that delays in reimbursement were forcing some students to miss opportunities for postgraduate education and higher studies abroad. He said the previous BRS government had allocated Rs 21,000 crore for fee reimbursement and alleged that the Congress government was failing to release the required funds.

Harish Rao alleged that BRS women MLAs Sabitha Indra Reddy and Sunitha were denied an opportunity to speak despite seeking the microphone following alleged incidents involving party legislators. He claimed Congress members were repeatedly allowed to speak while Opposition members were restricted.

He also alleged that cases against BRS leaders were being used to divert attention from the incidents and claimed police personnel were deployed around MLAs to control them. Harish Rao said a comprehensive inquiry would be conducted if the BRS returned to power.

Meanwhile, Congress MLC Balmoor Venkat accused BRS MLAs of acting on KCR’s directions and alleged that photos and videos of the Assembly gate commotion were being morphed to target the government. He also accused the BRS of disrespecting the Dalit community by insulting the Speaker and demanded an apology.