BRS Accuses Telangana Government of Rice Export Scam; Minister Responds
Synopsis
Tensions rise in Telangana as the BRS alleges a scam involving rice exports to the Philippines, demanding a House Committee investigation. Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy counters the claims, asserting a historic agreement with the Philippines government. What lies behind the controversy?
Key Takeaways
BRS alleges a scam in the rice export to the Philippines.
Minister Reddy denies the allegations, citing a historic agreement.
Concerns raised about the lack of a tender process.
Calls for a House Committee investigation are underway.
Government assures support to farmers with price guarantees and bonuses.
Hyderabad, March 23 (NationPress) The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has raised allegations concerning a scam in the rice export to the Philippines, urging the formation of a House Committee for investigation. In response, Civil Supplies Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy refuted these claims, asserting that the Telangana government has established a historic agreement with the Philippine government.
BRS Deputy Leader T. Harish Rao voiced these allegations during the Assembly's Question Hour. He requested information regarding the rice export and the appointment of Premchand Garg as an advisor, mentioning that Garg is under scrutiny from central agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate (ED).
Rao accused the government of conducting a scam in the rice export sector and urged the Speaker to initiate a House Committee to investigate these claims.
He also questioned the absence of a tender process for the rice export and the rationale behind awarding the contract to a private entity on a nomination basis.
The BRS sought clarification from the government regarding the status of 7,500 tonnes of rice reportedly still at the Kakinada port, and whether the government is incurring warehouse and handling fees at the port.
Harish Rao asserted that the alleged scam has caused financial losses to the state and reiterated the demand for a House Committee probe.
Despite the accusations, N. Uttam Kumar Reddy denied any connection between the rice export and Premchand Garg, stating there was no basis for the allegations.
In protest over the lack of a satisfactory response from the minister, the BRS staged a demonstration.
Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasized that Telangana has emerged as a global rice hub and highlighted the state’s agreement with the Philippines for direct rice exports, eliminating middlemen. He characterized the agreement as historic, firmly denying any wrongdoing.
He assured that the government would guarantee the purchase of the last grain from farmers at the minimum support price during the Rabi season and mentioned a commitment of Rs.500 bonus to farmers for fine rice, with an allocation of Rs.3,500 crore for the bonus.
Point of View
The ongoing allegations made by the BRS against the Telangana government regarding rice exports represent a significant political conflict. The demand for a formal investigation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in governance. The minister's response emphasizes the government's commitment to agricultural development, but the situation warrants close scrutiny to ensure the integrity of public resources.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What allegations did the BRS make regarding rice exports?
The BRS alleged a scam in the export of rice to the Philippines and called for a House Committee investigation.
How did Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy respond to the allegations?
Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy denied the allegations, claiming that the Telangana government has signed a historic agreement with the Philippines for rice exports.
Who is Premchand Garg, and why is he mentioned in this context?
Premchand Garg is an advisor whose appointment was questioned by BRS leaders due to ongoing investigations by central agencies like the Enforcement Directorate.
What does the BRS want from the government regarding the rice export?
The BRS seeks clarification on the export process, particularly the lack of tenders, and wants to know the status of rice stored at Kakinada port.
What assurances did Minister Reddy give to farmers?
Minister Reddy assured that the government would purchase rice at minimum support prices and provide additional bonuses to farmers.
