HYDERABAD: Telangana Jana Samithi (TJS) chief Prof. Kodandaram has accused the previous BRS government of driving Telangana into a financial crisis through excessive borrowing. He stated that the state’s economic situation has deteriorated significantly due to the mounting debt burden.
Speaking about the current budget, Kodandaram noted that the figures presented are closer to realistic estimates but raised concerns about the heavy interest burden on loans. He highlighted that the Kaleshwaram project alone is costing the state ₹12,000 crore in interest payments, while another ₹12,000 crore is being spent on power expenses.
Prof. Kodandaram pointed out that while many states allocate 14.7% of their budget to education, Telangana lags behind. He demanded that Telangana increase its education spending to match the national average. He also highlighted that while most states spend 6.7% of their budget on healthcare, Telangana spends significantly less, which he said is inadequate for public welfare.
The TJS leader questioned the 30% increase in revenue from stamps and registration, demanding an explanation for this surge. He urged the government to further increase allocations to education and healthcare, saying these sectors are essential for the state’s growth.
Prof. Kodandaram stressed the importance of fully utilising the ₹34,000 crore allocated for weaker sections and called for higher budgetary allocations to integrated schools.
Referring to irrigation projects, he pointed out that 33 projects were pending when Telangana was formed. He argued that with a moderate increase in expenditure, these projects could have been completed, but they remain unfinished. He criticised the spiralling costs of the Kaleshwaram project, which have soared from ₹40,000 crore to ₹1.5 lakh crore, causing other irrigation projects to be sidelined.
He demanded the completion of the Tummidi Hatti project and warned against rushing into repairs on the Kaleshwaram project without a comprehensive technical report, calling it risky and futile.
Prof. Kodandaram also criticised the central government, alleging that it is favoring other states by granting them more funds while Telangana receives only ₹51,000 crore. He urged the state government to focus on securing Telangana’s rightful share of central funds and ensure that tax burdens do not fall on common citizens.
