KTR Revives Cash-for-Vote Row, Targets CM Revanth Reddy Ahead of Civic Polls

With municipal elections approaching, political temperatures in Telangana have risen sharply after K. T. Rama Rao (KTR) launched a strong attack on Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy during a campaign rally in Bhupalpally on February 10. The BRS Working President revived past controversies while also raising fresh governance concerns and corruption allegations , intensifying the political battle between the ruling Congress government and the opposition BRS .

A major focus of KTR’s speech was the revival of the 2015 cash-for-vote scandal , in which Revanth Reddy was arrested during a sting operation when he was in the Telugu Desam Party. KTR said the incident raised questions about the Chief Minister’s political integrity and urged voters not to forget the episode. He alleged that instead of addressing public concerns about implementation of election promises and welfare schemes , the Chief Minister was resorting to personal attacks and aggressive rhetoric. There has been no immediate response from the Chief Minister or Congress leaders to these latest remarks.

KTR also accused the state government of failing to provide clarity on commitments related to farmers , women beneficiaries , employment, and urban development . He argued that governance discussions should center on accountability and delivery rather than political mudslinging. In contrast, the Congress administration has highlighted housing expansion, financial support to municipalities, and infrastructure works as signs of progress.

Another key allegation concerned the Singareni Collieries Company , a major public sector coal enterprise. KTR claimed the once-profitable company has suffered losses and alleged contract irregularities worth thousands of crores. He further accused the Chief Minister and associates of involvement in a ₹6,000-crore scam , questioning the absence of action despite alleged evidence. The state government has denied any wrongdoing in Singareni operations.

The BRS leader also alleged that certain officials were exerting pressure on opposition workers and warned that misuse of authority would not be tolerated. He criticized what he described as inappropriate remarks against rivals and said leadership should show restraint and responsibility.

Appealing to voters, KTR urged them to select the BRS car symbol and said those who felt Congress promises had not benefited them should vote against the ruling party. As campaigning intensifies, observers note that beyond allegations and counter-allegations, voters remain focused on civic issues like water supply, sanitation, roads, and effective welfare delivery, which could ultimately shape the municipal poll results.