Jadcherla MLA slams govt over ‘biased’ approvals, bats for Mahua plantations

Congress MLA J Anirudh Reddy criticised the State government for favouring wealthy individuals in granting approvals while the poor struggle with delays. He advocated large-scale Mahua plantations to support tribal livelihoods, citing the tree’s economic and medicinal value.

Hyderabad: Congress MLA from Jadcherla, J Anirudh Reddy, on Tuesday criticised the State government over delays in granting permissions and executing development works. He alleged that approvals were being given mainly to influential and wealthy individuals, while others struggled to get their projects cleared.

“The poor are forced to run from pillar to post to get their works done. While the works of rich and influential people are cleared quickly, the poor have to visit offices multiple times,” he said at a press conference.

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Congress MLA advocates Mahua plantations

The MLA also called for large-scale plantation of Mahua trees, citing their economic and medicinal value. He said every part of the Mahua tree, including flowers, leaves and trunk, had uses and could support the livelihoods of tribal communities. Liquor made from Mahua flowers was also beneficial, he added.

Anirudh Reddy said 55 MLAs, including members from the BJP, had supported his proposal. “I will write to the Chief Minister and the Forest Minister seeking plantation of 10 lakh Mahua saplings across the State,” he said.

He alleged that the TDP government had earlier banned Mahua liquor in the undivided state, but later approved a private Mahua distillery unit in Chittoor.

The MLA also suggested that film actors should undergo drug tests every 90 days. He said there were rumours about drug use among film personalities and added that regular tests could help clear such concerns.