Will Revanth Reddy Challenge KCR to Debate on River Waters?
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Synopsis
In a bold move, Telangana's Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has thrown down the gauntlet to former CM K. Chandrasekhar Rao for a debate on river water sharing. This confrontation highlights the ongoing tensions and the critical battle over the state's water resources.
Key Takeaways
- Revanth Reddy challenges KCR to a public debate.
- The focus is on river water sharing and irrigation management.
- Reddy accuses KCR of compromising Telangana’s interests.
- The Congress government aims to reclaim water rights legally.
- Ongoing tensions highlight the importance of resource management.
Hyderabad, July 9 (NationPress) Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of Telangana challenged former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao to engage in a debate regarding the distribution of river waters and irrigation initiatives, while launching a scathing critique of him for purportedly undermining the state's interests during the BRS administration.
The Chief Minister expressed his willingness to debate KCR in the Assembly about the actions of the former BRS government versus the current Congress administration's efforts to safeguard the state's interests.
He even proposed to hold a mock Assembly session at KCR's Erravalli farmhouse if the former Chief Minister had difficulty attending the Assembly.
Speaking at an event attended by Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, who presented a PowerPoint on the Krishna River water, Revanth Reddy stated he prefers not to engage in debates at social clubs. This was in response to a debate challenge from BRS working president K. T. Rama Rao at the Press Club.
KTR had arrived at the Press Club, awaiting the Chief Minister for a dialogue on agricultural concerns.
The Chief Minister asserted that if KCR had issues with attending the Assembly, he would be willing to send a team of ministers to KCR's farmhouse for the debate. “If KCR wishes to debate with me, I have no objections. KCR is my senior, and I’m open to going there,” he said, urging KCR to set a date and time for the discussion.
Revanth Reddy emphasized that KCR's alliance with the then Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy resulted in significant losses for Telangana. He asserted that no one had authorized KCR to sign a 'death warrant' for farmers reliant on Krishna waters.
He recalled KCR's past statements about the lack of basins and how 3,000 TMC of Godavari water was wasted in the sea. The former CM had also commented that Godavari water could be redirected to Krishna and Penna basins, transforming Rayalaseema into Ratanala Seema.
“KCR not only advised Jagan but also assisted in issuing tenders and government orders,” he noted.
The Chief Minister alleged that KCR failed to demand the supply of Krishna water to Hyderabad before discussions on surplus water usage occurred.
“Had he ensured water supply from Jurala to Palamuru and Rangareddy, Andhra Pradesh wouldn't have had the chance to divert Krishna waters to Rayalaseema,” he asserted.
He accused KCR of not completing any projects in the last decade, leading to Telangana losing its rights. “KCR’s betrayal of Telangana is a thousand times worse than the injustices faced by the state during the united Andhra Pradesh regarding Krishna waters,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy stated that the Congress government in Telangana would continue its legal, technical, and administrative efforts to reclaim the state’s rightful share of Krishna river waters.
He criticized the previous BRS administration for compromising Telangana's long-term interests through agreements with Andhra Pradesh, which allowed extensive water diversion, engineering mishaps, and financial mismanagement.
The minister confirmed that the government would rebuild damaged barrages of the Kaleshwaram projects in line with National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) guidelines.
Uttam Kumar Reddy also mentioned that the design changes in the Kaleshwaram project by KCT and the decision to abandon Tummidihatti for Medigadda to construct the barrage led to costly engineering failures and financial repercussions.
Point of View
This ongoing debate over river water sharing in Telangana highlights the critical governance challenges faced by local leaders. As the state grapples with water scarcity and agricultural needs, the political discourse surrounding these issues underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in leadership. It's essential to navigate these discussions with a focus on the welfare of the people and the sustainable management of resources.
NationPress
19/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue in the debate between Revanth Reddy and KCR?
The primary issue revolves around the sharing of river waters and irrigation projects, with Revanth Reddy accusing KCR of compromising Telangana's interests during his tenure.
What did Revanth Reddy offer regarding the debate?
Revanth Reddy offered to hold a mock Assembly session at KCR's Erravalli farmhouse if the former Chief Minister had trouble attending the Assembly.
How did KCR respond to the debate challenge?
While KCR was present at the Press Club waiting for a debate on farmers' issues, there has yet to be an official response to Revanth Reddy's challenge.
What are the implications of this debate for Telangana's farmers?
The debate could have significant implications for Telangana's farmers, particularly regarding access to water resources and the management of irrigation projects.
What stance does the current government take on water rights?
The Congress government in Telangana asserts that it will continue its legal and administrative battle to reclaim the state's rightful share of Krishna river waters.
