KTR denies allegations of insulting journalists

HYDERABAD: BRS Working President K Taraka Rama Rao strongly denied allegations of disrespecting journalists, calling it false propaganda.

Speaking at a press meet in Telangana Bhavan, KTR reaffirmed his respect for journalists, highlighting that the BRS has consistently provided political opportunities to them. He recalled the crucial role journalists played during the Telangana movement, even when media owners were against it, stating, "BRS holds journalists in high regard."

Addressing the controversy, KTR remarked, "If someone claims I insulted journalists, I leave it to their wisdom." He shifted focus to the Musi River project, accusing the Congress government of corruption. He questioned why media outlets were not doing more to expose the alleged Rs 1.5 lakh crore scam related to the project, and urged them to take responsibility in investigating the issue.

KTR also criticised the Congress for failing to release funds for schemes like the Rythu Bandhu, while seemingly finding money for the Musi project. He further alleged that permissions were being given for industrial projects such as Adani’s cement factory, while Congress falsely promoted a riverfront rejuvenation plan.

On a broader level, KTR attacked the Congress leadership for neglecting key issues like violence against journalists and misuse of power. He cited incidents involving women journalists in CM Revanth Reddy’s hometown and questioned why other media members remained silent. He also condemned attacks on journalists like Shankar, noting the lack of support from press associations.

KTR did not hold back on the employment issue either, criticising CM Revanth Reddy for claiming that BRS provided no jobs. "We’ve created over 1.6 lakh jobs; isn’t this the truth?" KTR asked, adding that the Congress was wrongfully taking credit for these employment figures. He accused the Congress of deceiving people with false promises, particularly regarding job creation, and challenged them to provide proof of their 60,000-job claim.

On the Musi project, KTR reaffirmed his commitment to exposing corruption and preventing misuse of public funds. He described the Congress-BJP ties in Telangana as a "secret friendship," pointing to instances of alleged coordination between the two parties.

KTR expressed frustration over the handling of communal incidents in Secunderabad, accusing the Congress government of failing to maintain law and order. He argued that BRS has managed to maintain peace and condemned the misuse of police force against his party’s social media activities.

KTR invited Rahul Gandhi and Revanth Reddy to revisit Ashok Nagar to account for their unfulfilled promise of 2 lakh jobs, sarcastically suggesting that students there would "welcome them with open arms."