Revanth Reddy’s sharp ‘U’ turn triggers political debate, leaves Congress leaders miffed

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s recent remarks on the lack of land for ST beneficiaries and advice against relying solely on welfare schemes have sparked internal debate within the Telangana Congress, raising concerns over credibility, earlier assurances, and collective leadership practices

Hyderabad: Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has triggered political debate and internal disquiet within the Congress with his volte face on assurances on land allotments to Scheduled Tribes and other disadvantaged sections.

Speaking at the birth anniversary celebrations of Sant Sevalal Maharaj on Sunday, the Chief Minister said that while the government was willing to allocate land to ST beneficiaries, there was no land currently available. He also advised communities not to depend solely on welfare schemes, remarks that have drawn criticism from sections within his own party.

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The comments came shortly after the declaration of municipal election results.

Party leaders pointed out that the statement contradicted earlier assurances, particularly to families displaced by the River Musi rejuvenation project. Last year, the Chief Minister had stated that around 1,000 acres of government land was available at Jawaharnagar for housing the displaced and had assured allotment of 150 square yards to each eligible beneficiary under the Indiramma housing scheme.

A senior Congress leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the remarks had raised concerns within the party. “It is not merely about individual credibility; the party’s reliability is also at stake,” the leader observed, questioning the consistency of public messaging. The leader also referred to earlier statements regarding the State’s financial constraints, including delays in retirement benefits and dearness allowance payments to government employees, and alleged difficulties in securing loans.

Ahead of the municipal polls, the Telangana Congress had appointed Ministers as in-charges for Parliament constituencies and constituted screening committees for candidate selection, assigning collective responsibility for electoral performance. Following the circulation of a video clip in which the Chief Minister asserted his authority in handling party affairs and municipal elections, he later clarified that his remarks had been misinterpreted and stated that he had assumed responsibility for the civic polls.

However, some party leaders expressed reservations over the assertion of sole responsibility. “The Congress functions on collective leadership. Credit and accountability must both be shared,” another leader said, referring to the party’s performance in certain regions, including erstwhile Mahabubnagar district. The developments have sparked discussions within the party ranks.