PM Modi accuses BRS of Kaleshwaram scam, Congress concealing facts.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi made significant allegations during his visit to Hyderabad on Monday, March 4, accusing the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government in Telangana of involvement in the Kaleshwaram project scam. He further alleged that the current Congress-led government is now attempting to hide the related files.
In a charged statement, Modi remarked, “You (BRS) looted, now we (Congress) will loot,” indicating a cycle of corruption he believes has persisted in the state. He drew parallels between the governance of the BRS and the Congress, suggesting a continuity of corruption and lack of accountability.
These accusations were made during the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) outreach rally in Adilabad, held shortly after the inauguration of developmental projects worth Rs 56,000 crores. The atmosphere at the event was cordial, with an apparent camaraderie between PM Modi and Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who flew to the district to participate in the rally.
PM Modi took the opportunity to reflect on the historical contributions of the people of Telangana, lamenting that these have often gone unrecognized. He highlighted Adilabad’s significance as the land of tribal legends such as Ramji Gond and Komaram Bheem.
“Since 2014, the BJP Government at the Centre has accorded great importance to the development of Telangana and the honor of the tribal community,” Modi asserted. He cited examples such as the remarkable achievement of having a tribal woman as the President of the country and the recognition of Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary as a national festival. Modi also noted the establishment of a separate ministry for the development of tribal communities under the BJP Government.
Modi did not shy away from targeting the INDIA bloc alliance, accusing it of engaging in “corruption, appeasement, and dynasty politics.” This remark aimed to draw a sharp contrast between the purported values of the BJP and the practices of its political opponents.
The allegations of corruption related to the Kaleshwaram project hold significant weight in Telangana’s political landscape. The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, a massive irrigation venture in the state, has been a subject of controversy since its inception. Questions regarding the project’s cost, execution, and alleged irregularities have been raised by opposition parties and civil society alike.
The Prime Minister’s assertion of a cycle of corruption between successive governments in Telangana struck a chord with the audience. It highlighted the BJP’s stance against corruption and its commitment to transparency in governance.
The BJP rally in Adilabad served as a platform for Modi to reiterate his government’s dedication to the development of Telangana, particularly emphasizing the upliftment of tribal communities. The establishment of a separate ministry for tribal welfare, as mentioned by Modi, reflects a strategic approach towards inclusive growth and empowerment.
Furthermore, Modi’s remarks on the historical neglect of Telangana’s contributions resonated with the state’s populace. The acknowledgment of tribal legends and their significance in Adilabad showcased a cultural understanding and respect for the region’s heritage.
The Prime Minister’s criticism of the Congress government’s alleged attempts to conceal files related to the Kaleshwaram project added a new dimension to the ongoing political discourse in Telangana. It underscored the BJP’s commitment to uncovering corruption and holding accountable those responsible for financial improprieties.
Modi’s assertion that the BJP Government has prioritized the development of Telangana since 2014 aligns with the party’s narrative of proactive governance and targeted development initiatives. The mention of key achievements, such as the appointment of a tribal woman as President and the recognition of tribal leader Birsa Munda, aimed to showcase the BJP’s commitment to social inclusivity and diversity.
The Prime Minister’s critique of the INDIA bloc alliance further highlighted the ideological differences between the BJP and its political rivals. By alleging corruption, appeasement, and dynasty politics within the alliance, Modi sought to position the BJP as a party committed to clean governance and meritocracy.
Overall, Modi’s visit to Telangana and the subsequent rally in Adilabad provided a platform for the BJP to assert its stance on governance, development, and accountability. The allegations of corruption related to the Kaleshwaram project, coupled with promises of inclusive growth and empowerment, formed the crux of Modi’s address to the enthusiastic crowd.
As the political landscape in Telangana continues to evolve, Modi’s statements are likely to resonate with voters and shape public opinion in the lead-up to future elections. The BJP’s narrative of combating corruption, recognizing historical contributions, and prioritizing development initiatives is poised to play a pivotal role in the state’s political discourse. Whether these assertions translate into tangible outcomes for Telangana’s citizens remains to be seen, but Modi’s visit certainly left a lasting impact on the political landscape of the state.