'KCR, Revanth Reddy challenge each other with rival public rallies'

Telangana witnessed an intense political face-off as Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) exchanged sharp attacks, bringing the focus to the Kaleshwaram project , governance, welfare delivery, and the state’s political future. While Revanth Reddy pushed allegations of corruption and demanded a CBI probe into the ₹1 lakh crore irrigation project, KCR countered by accusing the Congress government of widespread administrative failure and projecting a strong political comeback.

During his visit to the Medigadda barrage , Revanth Reddy expressed anguish over the project’s condition, alleging that massive public funds were misused under the previous regime. He questioned why the Centre has not acted despite repeated requests for investigation and raised suspicions over BRS leaders’ outreach to national leadership. At the same time, he clarified that the project would not be abandoned, emphasizing a dual approach of accountability and restoration. Scientific assessments under National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) guidelines are underway, including advanced geotechnical studies and drone-based surveys, with over 520 samples being analysed to guide repairs of key barrages.

Revanth Reddy also highlighted plans to revive the Pranahita–Chevella project to strengthen irrigation and accused the previous government of flawed redesign decisions that escalated costs and led to structural issues. Escalating the political rhetoric, he challenged KCR directly, vowing to strip BRS of even opposition status in future elections and expressing confidence that Congress would return to power with a record majority. He urged party workers to aim for Rahul Gandhi becoming Prime Minister in 2029 by winning 15 of Telangana’s 17 Lok Sabha seats, while showcasing welfare measures such as Rythu Bharosa , farm loan waivers, free bus travel for women, and subsidised rice distribution.

At the Rythu Utsavams in Nasturupalli village, the Chief Minister released ₹2,200 crore as the second installment under Rythu Bharosa , directly benefiting 40 lakh farmers . So far, the government has disbursed ₹5,700 crore , with another ₹3,300 crore scheduled for release next month. He also noted that farm loans up to ₹2 lakh have been waived for 25.35 lakh farmers within a year. Reaffirming his vision, he said the goal is to transform agriculture into a celebration rather than a burden, and laid the foundation stone for a ₹203 crore high-level bridge over the Maneru River between Arenda and Damerakunta villages.

Responding strongly, KCR asserted that BRS would “100 per cent” return to power, pointing out that the party lost the 2023 Assembly elections by just a 1.7% vote margin . At a massive Jagtial meeting , the political momentum shifted further as senior leader Jeevan Reddy joined BRS along with his cadre after ending a four-decade-long association with Congress, and was appointed General Secretary an entry KCR described as a major boost to the party in North Telangana. He claimed that people were happier during BRS rule and alleged that no section of society is satisfied under the current government.

Criticizing the state’s economic condition, KCR pointed to declining revenues, slowdown in real estate , water shortages affecting farmers, distress among weavers, and unemployment among workers. He further alleged that the government is struggling financially, including delays in clearing dues to employees and retirees. KCR also targeted specific policies, arguing that the free bus scheme for women has affected auto drivers, while farmers face inconvenience due to digital systems replacing earlier support mechanisms. He specifically highlighted urea availability , stating that under the BRS regime fertilizers were delivered conveniently, whereas now farmers are forced to rely on apps and struggle to access supplies.

He contrasted this with BRS governance, highlighting 24-hour free electricity and improved infrastructure. Making a key political promise, KCR said his first decision after returning to power would be scrapping HYDRAA , while clarifying that BRS is not opposed to the Musi rejuvenation project but alleged it is being misused for demolitions and real estate interests. Meanwhile, Revanth Reddy criticized Jeevan Reddy’s switch as politically motivated, intensifying the war of words between the two camps.

With both leaders sharpening their narratives one focusing on accountability and welfare, the other on governance failures and revival the Kaleshwaram project has emerged as the central political flashpoint, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle in Telangana.