TPCC chief Mahesh Kumar Goud says Banakacherla already built, draws flak

TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud’s claim that Andhra Pradesh has already built the Banakacherla project triggered backlash, with BRS and others criticising Congress for negligence and lack of knowledge on irrigation issues.

Hyderabad: Even as the war of words continues between leaders of the two Telugu States over the proposed Banakacherla project in Andhra Pradesh, TPCC president Mahesh Kumar Goud sparked controversy by claiming that the project has already been constructed, triggering sharp criticism from various quarters.

He made these remarks during the “Janahita Padayatra” in Sangareddy on Friday night.

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Addressing the gathering, Mahesh Kumar Goud blamed the previous BRS government for allegedly permitting the Banakacherla project. “It is due to the negligence of the BRS government that the Andhra Pradesh government has constructed the Banakacherla project,” he said.

The TPCC president further alleged that former Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao had signed documents approving the project’s construction. “We will not allow Andhra Pradesh to draw one drop of water,” he declared.

However, his remarks drew widespread backlash. Several questioned the Congress leadership’s understanding of the irrigation sector.

Chandram Kummari posted on X: “The scamgress leaders have no idea about Telangana’s requirements. For the past 55 years, they were responsible for Telangana being deprived of its rightful share in river waters. Now, they are again making tall promises on protecting Telangana’s interests.”

The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) also criticised the Congress over its perceived lack of commitment and knowledge.

Sharing a clip of the TPCC chief’s statement, BRS spokesperson Manne Krishank said on X: “TPCC president says Banakacherla construction is already completed. Buffoonery at display.”