Hyderabad: Union Minister of Coal and Mines and Telangana-BJP Chief G Kishan Reddy criticized Chief Minister Revanth Reddy's approach to the Musi riverfront beautification project, labeling it one-sided and detrimental to the poor. During a press conference on Thursday, Reddy reiterated the BJP's opposition to demolishing the homes of impoverished residents, revealing that he has previously written to the Chief Minister requesting a halt to these demolitions.

Reddy highlighted that 70% of drainage water flows into the Musi River, urging the government to address drainage issues before proceeding with beautification efforts. He questioned the rationale behind demolishing houses that have stood for years and criticized the government for failing to resolve the ongoing drainage and drinking water problems in Hyderabad. "Revanth Reddy's actions reflect a one-sided approach. His treatment of the poor is unjust. I've clearly stated our party's position that no homes of the impoverished should be demolished. I also wrote a letter to the Chief Minister asking for these demolitions to stop, but there has been no response," Reddy stated.

He pointed out that the BRS government had previously initiated a corporation for the Musi beautification project but withdrew it after facing public protests. "If beautification is the goal, build retaining walls on both sides instead of demolishing homes. These houses weren't built yesterday; they've existed for many years, even during your previous administrations," he added. 

Reddy warned that continued demolitions could lead to the government's downfall. "The government, GHMC, and Hyderabad Metro Water Board have merged all lines into the Musi. First, resolve the drainage and drinking water issues affecting 40% of Telangana's population in Hyderabad. If the demolitions continue, it may result in severe political consequences," he asserted.

He also criticized the Congress government in Karnataka for failing to fulfill its poll promises, predicting that Telangana could experience a similar fate. "What happened to your promises? You're diverting attention now. Both BRS and Congress are alike in this regard. In Karnataka, Congress made guarantees but couldn't deliver, leading to allegations of corruption. The same scenario could unfold in Telangana," he said.

Referring to an alleged 'RG and RR tax' being imposed in the state, Reddy questioned the motives behind the Musi beautification project. "Where is Rahul Gandhi now? Why are people being intimidated in the name of this project? Why is RG tax being collected in your and your party's name?" he asked.

Earlier, Reddy met families facing relocation due to the project and emphasized that many of these colonies have existed for 30-40 years. He condemned Revanth Reddy's push for demolition, stating, "These poor people worked hard to buy their land and build their homes. The government didn't grant them this land. The people didn't vote for Congress to have their homes destroyed."

He urged the Chief Minister to focus on construction rather than demolition, assuring that the Central government would provide assistance. Reddy concluded with a warning to Revanth Reddy: "Hyderabad did not vote for Congress to have their houses demolished. There has been significant corruption in Telangana in the last six months. I caution Revanth Reddy that we will not allow these demolitions; we will fight against them, even if it means going to jail."

Car Catches Fire Near Toll Plaza in Jhajjar, Haryana; No Injuries Reported

Former BJP MP Roopa Ganguly Arrested After Protesting at Kolkata Police Station Over Student's Death

Hindu Community in Bangladesh Banned from Organizing Durga Puja Pandals Amid Security Concerns