BRS intensifies attack on Seethakka over Anganwadi phone procurement row

The BRS demanded a CBI probe into alleged irregularities in Anganwadi mobile phone procurement, questioning pricing and tender details. The demand followed a legal notice by Minister Seethakka, further escalating the political confrontation between the ruling Congress and the opposition.

Hyderabad: The confrontation between the ruling Congress and the opposition BRS over the procurement of mobile phones for Anganwadi workers escalated on Monday, with Panchayat Raj Minister Danasari Anasuya alias Seethakka serving a legal notice to the party leadership. Hitting back, BRS leaders demanded a CBI probe into the alleged irregularities.

Addressing a press conference at Telangana Bhavan, BRS social media convener Manne Krishank questioned the basis of the legal notice issued by the Minister to party chief K Chandrashekhar Rao, asking her to clarify what connection she was attributing to him in the alleged scam. He alleged that while tenders worth around Rs 54 crore were floated for procuring 35,310 smartphones, only about Rs 24 crore was actually spent, raising questions over the remaining Rs 30 crore.

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He accused the government of distributing lower-value devices despite claims of providing high-quality smartphones to Anganwadi workers. He reiterated that the said device was available in the retail shops at just Rs 8,200, but the State government procured them at inflated price of around Rs 14,000.

Pointing out discrepancies in official claims, Krishank said some Congress leaders had publicly stated that 5G-enabled devices were being distributed, while, according only 4G phones were supplied. “Instead of addressing these questions, the Minister has resorted to threats and legal notices,” he said, referring to the Minister’s warning to use her footwear at those making allegations against her.

BRS leader Y Satish Reddy demanded transparency in the procurement process and challenged the government to verify the market price of the devices. He accused the Minister of evading accountability and insisted that only an independent investigation could establish the facts.
BRS leader Dinesh Chowdary said the issue warranted a thorough probe, particularly as Central funds were allegedly involved. He questioned why the government was unwilling to order an inquiry if it had nothing to hide. He said the Minister’s response had deepened suspicion rather than addressing concerns.