Did Revanth Reddy and Chandrababu Naidu Strike a Secret Deal Over the Banakacherla Project?
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Synopsis
Tensions rise in Telangana as BRS leader T. Harish Rao alleges a secret pact between A. Revanth Reddy and N. Chandrababu Naidu regarding the Banakacherla project. The accusation follows a series of mutual allegations concerning the interests of the state, raising questions about political integrity and water resource management.
Key Takeaways
- Allegations of a secret deal between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh leaders.
- Claims of compromised interests regarding water resources.
- Political tensions escalate as accusations fly.
- Call for transparency regarding project approvals and communications.
- Potential debate challenge issued by Harish Rao to Revanth Reddy.
Hyderabad, July 2 (NationPress) The leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), T. Harish Rao, has claimed that a covert agreement exists between Telangana's Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, regarding the Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project.
Following Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's allegations against former chief minister and BRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) and Harish Rao for jeopardizing the state's interests during the BRS tenure, Harish Rao retaliated on Wednesday by accusing Revanth Reddy of engaging in a clandestine arrangement with the adjacent state.
The former irrigation minister contended that this agreement between the two chief ministers was established at Praja Bhavan in Hyderabad on July 6, 2024.
During a press conference, Harish Rao asserted that CM Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy approved the Banakacherla project.
On Tuesday, CM Revanth Reddy accused KCR and Harish Rao of compromising Telangana's interests concerning Krishna waters and later Godavari waters.
In a PowerPoint presentation to MLAs, the Chief Minister alleged that KCR, in a meeting with his then Andhra Pradesh counterpart Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, had proposed to relinquish Godavari water, suggesting that vast quantities were wasting into the sea annually.
Pointing to Revanth Reddy's former ties with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Chandrababu Naidu, Harish Rao claimed that by entering into a secret deal, Revanth Reddy was making an offering to his 'guru'.
Harish Rao criticized Revanth Reddy for spreading falsehoods regarding the river water situation despite holding a constitutional position.
He emphasized that the interests of Telangana are of utmost importance to the BRS, which fought for and achieved statehood.
Harish Rao urged CM Revanth Reddy, if genuinely opposed to the Banakacherla project, to disclose the letters he has sent to the Centre on the matter.
He questioned why the Chief Minister's presentation failed to mention that Chandrababu Naidu had obstructed numerous Telangana projects such as Kaleshwaram, Palamuru, Dindi, and Bhakta Ramadasu.
The former minister noted that it was only after the BRS raised concerns about Banakacherla that Congress leaders began addressing the issue.
He accused Revanth Reddy of making unfounded claims against the BRS out of fear of being revealed.
Harish Rao expressed his willingness to accept Revanth Reddy's challenge for a debate in the Assembly, stating that his only requirement is that his microphone should not be muted during the discussion.
Point of View
It is crucial to present these allegations objectively. The claims made by T. Harish Rao highlight the intense political rivalry in the region, particularly concerning water resource management and project approvals. It is essential to consider the implications of these accusations on governance and regional cooperation.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Banakacherla project?
The Banakacherla project is a significant water resource initiative aimed at linking the Polavaram and Banakacherla regions to enhance irrigation and manage water resources.
Who are the key figures involved in the allegations?
The key figures include T. Harish Rao, the leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), A. Revanth Reddy, the Chief Minister of Telangana, and N. Chandrababu Naidu, the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh.
What are the implications of the alleged secret deal?
If true, the alleged secret deal could significantly impact the political dynamics between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, particularly concerning water resource management and project funding.
How has the public reacted to these allegations?
Public reaction has been mixed, with supporters of both parties weighing in on the credibility of the claims and their potential impact on state politics.
What steps are being taken to investigate these allegations?
The situation is still developing, and it remains to be seen whether any formal investigations will be conducted regarding the allegations of a secret deal.
