The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Telangana): Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday claimed that the state experienced “destruction of 100 years” during the 10-year rule of the BRS party. Speaking at the 10th Telangana formation day celebrations in Hyderabad, he emphasized his government’s focus on the state’s cultural and economic revival and his ambition to make Telangana a global destination.
Reddy expressed gratitude to Congress leader Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for fulfilling the long-standing demand for statehood for Telangana during the UPA regime. He defended the decision to invite Sonia Gandhi to the event, despite her absence, and praised her pivotal role in the state’s formation.
A video message from Sonia Gandhi was played, and Reddy highlighted the contributions of former Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar and late BJP leader Sushma Swaraj in passing the Telangana statehood bill in Parliament in 2014. He questioned the necessity of seeking permission to invite Sonia Gandhi, referring to her as the “mother” of Telangana.
The BJP criticized the Congress government’s decision to invite Sonia Gandhi, questioning her relevance to the event. Reddy reiterated the significant roles of Sonia Gandhi, Meira Kumar, and Sushma Swaraj in the bill’s passage, thanking them on behalf of Telangana’s people.
Reddy accused the previous BRS government of causing extensive damage to the state, impacting fundamental freedoms, social justice, and economic equality. He claimed the state’s wealth was concentrated in the hands of a few, neglecting its cultural heritage.
Upon taking office, Reddy’s government prioritized restoring “freedom” and making the government accessible to the people. The previous Chief Minister’s residence was renamed after social reformer Jyotiba Phule, and a system for addressing public grievances was established.
Reddy announced the adoption of “Jaya Jaya he Telangana…”, a song by poet Ande Sri, as the state’s official song, with music composed by Oscar-winner M.M. Keeravani. He also mentioned plans for a new state emblem and the design of a ‘Telangana Talli’ statue, symbolizing the hardworking and generous rural women of Telangana.
He alleged the state’s economy was in shambles when his government took power, with debts reaching Rs 7 lakh crore. Reddy outlined long-term plans, including the “Green Telangana – 2050 Master Plan,” welfare initiatives like the Musi Riverfront Development project, and recruitment drives.
From now on, Hyderabad will no longer serve as the joint capital of Telangana and Andhra Pradesh. Reddy expressed his commitment to resolving asset division issues between the two states and envisioned Hyderabad as a global brand.
Concluding his speech, Reddy highlighted his government’s initiatives and his vision for Telangana’s progress. He unfurled the national flag and inspected the parade in an open jeep, marking the state’s formation day.