Did Telangana Dy CM Ask Singareni to Cancel Tender Due to Allegations?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant development, Telangana Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has directed Singareni Collieries to cancel the Naini coal block tender amidst serious allegations about his involvement. Unfazed by accusations, he asserts his dedication to public service and protecting state resources.
Key Takeaways
- Deputy CM directs cancellation of Naini coal block tender
- Accusations of involvement in tender process
- Calls for fresh tenders following Centre's guidelines
- Strong denial of allegations by the Deputy CM
- Singareni's historical significance in coal production
Hyderabad, Jan 18 (NationPress) Telangana's Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka has instructed the Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) to annul the mining tender for the Naini coal block, in light of accusations regarding his involvement in the tendering process.
During a press briefing, he emphasized that he has mandated SCCL to initiate new tenders, adhering to the guidelines established by the Centre for public sector entities.
He mentioned that the company’s management expressed their inability to be held accountable when the tender was merely called and no participants came forward.
Addressing the allegations directed at him, he asserted that he is undeterred by what he considers 'fabricated stories.'
Vikramarka clarified that he did not enter politics to amass wealth or build business empires, asserting his commitment to safeguarding the State's assets and legacy for future generations.
The Deputy Chief Minister, overseeing the Energy and Finance portfolios, dismissed reports from a Telugu news channel and a newspaper, labeling them as a ‘concocted’ narrative aimed at misleading the populace of Telangana.
He strongly denied claims suggesting he had a hand in awarding the Naini coal block contract to particular firms.
The senior Congress figure stated that his political journey was driven by a desire to equitably distribute resources and assets among all community segments.
He accused certain individuals of fabricating this narrative out of resentment towards the late Chief Minister Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy, with whom he shared a friendship.
The Deputy Chief Minister clarified that the rules for tenders are determined by Singareni, not by the minister. “They lack even this basic understanding, yet they have spun falsehoods and published articles against me to mislead the people of Telangana,” he remarked.
Vikramarka stated that no one has the right to engage in character assassination through such stories. He also suggested that these narratives are being circulated to create discord among leaders.
Singareni, a public sector entity under both State and Central government control, began production in the Naini coal block in Odisha last April. The mine was allocated to them nearly ten years ago by the Ministry of Coal.
The Deputy Chief Minister had previously inaugurated coal production in this block, marking a significant milestone as it was the first instance in Singareni’s 130-year history of commencing operations in a mine outside Telangana.
Point of View
This incident sheds light on the complexities of political accountability and public trust. The Deputy Chief Minister's swift action suggests a commitment to transparency, but the accusations raise questions about the integrity of political processes. As this story evolves, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on governance and public perception in Telangana.
NationPress
18/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the cancellation of the Naini coal block tender?
The cancellation was directed by Telangana's Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka following allegations of his involvement in the tender process.
What is Singareni Collieries Company Limited?
Singareni Collieries Company Limited (SCCL) is a public sector coal mining company operating under the State and Central government.
What was the Deputy CM's response to the allegations?
He refuted the allegations, calling them 'fabricated stories' and emphasized his commitment to public service rather than personal gain.
What is the significance of the Naini coal block?
The Naini coal block is significant as it marks Singareni's first production venture outside Telangana in its 130-year history.
How did the Deputy CM react to the media reports?
He strongly denied the claims made by a Telugu news channel and a newspaper, labeling them as misleading and concocted.
