HYDERABAD, February 10: Minister Thummala Nageswara Rao has expressed strong disapproval of BRS Working President K.T. Rama Rao’s recent criticisms of the Congress government’s agricultural policies. Speaking to the media on Monday, Thummala accused KTR of undermining the respect that K. Chandrashekar Rao holds among the farming community.
Thummala highlighted that during the decade-long BRS administration, there was a noticeable neglect of farmers’ issues. He questioned KTR’s current criticisms, pointing out that the Congress government has implemented numerous farmer-centric programs within a year, contrasting it with the previous government’s inaction.
He further condemned KTR’s remarks, suggesting that they could inadvertently encourage farmer suicides. Thummala advised KTR to refrain from commenting on agricultural matters, implying that such restraint might benefit the BRS party. He warned that if this approach continues, the outcomes of the upcoming MP elections might mirror previous results unfavorable to the BRS.
Addressing the issue of financial support to farmers, Thummala criticized KTR for his comments on the Rythu Bharosa scheme. He assured that the scheme would be extended to all eligible agricultural lands owned by individuals, including those of KCR, KTR, and Harish Rao. Thummala also alleged that during the previous administration, funds were inappropriately allocated under the Rythu Bandhu scheme, even to non-agricultural lands, and indicated that these discrepancies would soon be exposed. He mentioned that efforts are underway to assess agricultural lands using satellite imagery to ensure accurate distribution of benefits.
This exchange underscores the escalating tensions between the Congress and BRS parties, particularly concerning agricultural policies and support for farmers in Telangana.
