Revanth Reddy hits out at Centre over denial of US tour

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy hit back at BJP criticism over his possible meeting with New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and criticised the Centre for denying political clearance for his US visit, alleging discrimination against Telangana and its development.

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy countered the BJP’s criticism over his possible meeting with New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani and stressed that the latter was not an anti-social element. “Mamdani is the elected Mayor of New York and not an anti-social element. Unless an official appointment is fixed, no programme will be conducted. He is not a councillor in our lane and one cannot meet him casually,” the Chief Minister said.

At a press conference here on Monday, he asked BJP leaders to exercise restraint, saying the Indian High Commission organises programmes and takes care of security and other arrangements. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Pakistan and whom did he meet and hug? Is Pakistan our friend or was the then Prime Minister our friend? But Telangana CM cannot travel to the US. How come you are dictating terms?” he asked.

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Revanth targets MEA

Reacting to the MEA spokesperson’s explanation for the denial of political clearance for his US tour, Revanth Reddy said, “Whoever is the spokesperson, he should better join BJP. He cannot continue as an MEA officer.”

The Chief Minister maintained that his application was submitted well in advance, mentioning the purpose, dates and other details of the visit. “When the purpose of visits to the UK and US was the same, why was permission denied for the US trip?” he asked.

According to him, the Centre could have denied permission for both visits if there were shortcomings in his application. Alternatively, the MEA could have sought clarification, he said.

‘Insult to Telangana’

Revanth Reddy came down heavily on the Centre over the denial of permission for his US tour. The Chief Minister said the decision was not merely a denial to him but an insult to the people of Telangana. He alleged that Gujarat’s dominance was behind the rejection.

“This is an insult to Telangana and obstruction to the State’s development. This is clear discrimination by the Central government towards Telangana and it is not acceptable,” he stressed.

Revanth Reddy cited Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s recent visit to the US and Canada from August 17 to 24 to promote the Vibrant Gujarat 2047 vision document. He said the Centre had permitted Patel to conduct roadshows. “I have seen in the last 30 months that the Central government is reluctant to cooperate with Telangana. Be it RRR, Metro Rail or any other issue. All this is because Narendra Modi thinks he is an ambassador for Gujarat and does not want other States to develop,” the Chief Minister added.