Hyderabad, Nov 21: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accused Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao of transforming the “revenue-surplus Telangana into a revenue-deficit state” over the past decade. Sitharaman asserted that the state has fallen into a debt trap, burdening future generations with repayment responsibilities.
Speaking at the Meet and Greet program in Malkajgiri constituency, part of the BJP’s election campaign, Sitharaman addressed retired defense employees and their families. She expressed shock at the state government’s imposition of 125% taxes on the Canteen Stores Department for defense service personnel.
Highlighting Telangana’s opposition to including petrol, diesel, and liquor under GST, Sitharaman criticized KCR for not utilizing the state’s potential for progress. She claimed that instead of advancing development, funds intended for public welfare were diverted for personal and party gains.
Recalling Telangana’s prosperous state at its formation, Sitharaman noted that Hyderabad was on the verge of attracting substantial investments. However, she contended that the current government cannot solely attribute incoming investments to its policies.
During a subsequent news conference, Sitharaman raised concerns about the Kaleshwaram project, describing it as a prestigious initiative now facing structural issues. She criticized KCR for not fulfilling his promise of making a Dalit leader Telangana’s first chief minister, citing the removal of Deputy Chief Minister T. Rajaiah within six months.
Sitharaman pointed out a stark disparity between the announced allocation of Rs 3,300 crore for the development of backward classes and the meager Rs 77 crore expenditure. Additionally, she highlighted substantial vacancies in universities and state government departments, emphasizing KCR’s failure to deliver on unemployment allowances.
Drawing attention to Telangana’s literacy rate of 66%, below the national average of 72%, Sitharaman underscored the state’s educational challenges compared to the rest of the country.
