Hyderabad: BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) has formally accepted Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s challenge for a public debate. The head-to-head is scheduled at 11 AM on July 8 at the Somajiguda Press Club, where KTR says he’s ready to face off “anywhere, anytime.”
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KTR Targets Congress on Farmer Support, Fertilizer Shortages
Speaking at Telangana Bhavan, KTR criticised the Congress government for failing farmers:
- Alleging fertilizer shortages and long queues
- Claiming free electricity promised for farmers remains unfulfilled
- Pointing to farmers’ insurance being undermined under Congress
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He contrasted this with alleged successes under KCR, including Rythu Bandhu, Oxford recognition, and ₹30,000 crore in loan waivers.
Accusations of Andhra-Centric Governance
KTR accused Revanth Reddy of running a “covert rule” for Andhra’s benefit, claiming Telangana water and funds are being diverted. He demanded: “Let us see if he dares to face facts.”
Countdown to Debate: 72-Hour Notice Issued
KTR issued a 72-hour notice for Revanth to confirm the venue and timing. “If not possible at the Press Club, choose anywhere else,” he declared.
Political Fallout: KTR Accuses CM of Broken Promises
KTR expressed disappointment in unfulfilled promises, stating:
- ₹39,000 crore owed to farmers under Rythu Bharosa, crop loan waivers and bonuses
- Loan waivers capped at ₹12,000 crore, far less than promised
- No new welfare schemes launched in 17 months
He also derided Revanth’s popularity claims and accused him of enriching national Congress leadership instead of Telangana.
Context: Ongoing Verbal Sparring Between KTR and Revanth
This public challenge comes amid a series of political clashes:
- KTR slammed new ACB notices in the Formula‑E case as “diversions”
- he called for a live lie‑detector test to prove honesty
- Earlier, he urged a central probe into Telangana graft allegations
What’s at Stake?
The July 8 debate is expected to focus on:
- Agriculture and irrigation policies
- Farmer welfare schemes like Rythu Bandhu and loan waivers
- Water allocation and Telangana’s financial priorities