Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has voiced strong discontent with the Union Budget 2024-25, alleging that the NDA government at the Centre has consistently ignored the needs and legitimate demands of Telangana. This dissatisfaction was articulated during a press conference, where Reddy highlighted several instances of perceived discrimination and unmet promises.

Key Issues Raised by the Telangana Government

1. Lack of Allocation for Key Projects: The Chief Minister pointed out that the Union Budget did not address any of the promises made to Telangana under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act of 2014. This includes the long-awaited Bayyaram steel plant and the railway coach factory at Kazipet. Despite repeated requests, these projects remain unfunded, raising concerns about the Centre’s commitment to the state’s development.

2. Neglect of Infrastructure Development: The budget also overlooked significant infrastructure projects in Telangana. There were no funds allocated for the development of Hyderabad’s infrastructure, the Musi riverfront development, the expansion of the Metro Rail, or the Hyderabad Pharma City. These projects are crucial for the state’s urban development and economic growth, yet they were conspicuously absent from the budget allocations.

3. Cultural and Regional Bias: Revanth Reddy criticized the Centre for its biased allocation of funds for cultural events. He noted the disparity in funding between the Kumbh Mela, which received substantial financial support, and the Sammakka-Saralamma Jatara, a major tribal festival in Telangana, which was allocated only a minimal amount. This, he argued, reflects a broader pattern of neglect and bias against southern states.

4. Inadequate Response to Developmental Needs: The Telangana government had submitted detailed requests for nearly Rs 60,000 crore to fund various developmental projects. These included substantial funds for Mission Kakatiya, aimed at revitalizing irrigation tanks, and Mission Bhagiratha, which seeks to provide drinking water to every household. However, these requests were largely ignored, leading to frustration and disappointment within the state government.

5. Unmet Promises from the AP Reorganisation Act: The budget failed to honor several commitments made under the AP Reorganisation Act. These include the establishment of a tribal university and other significant projects that were promised to Telangana. The consistent neglect of these commitments has been a sore point for the state government, which has been advocating for their fulfillment for several years.

6. Financial Disparities: The Chief Minister also highlighted the financial disparities in the allocation of central funds. While Telangana’s share in central taxes has increased, there has been no additional allocation beyond this. The state’s demand for special assistance for backward areas and specific grants as recommended by the 15th Finance Commission were also ignored, exacerbating the financial challenges faced by Telangana.

Call for Accountability and Resignation

In response to these grievances, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy called for the resignation of Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy, holding him accountable for the perceived injustice to Telangana. He argued that the Centre’s neglect of the state’s development needs was unacceptable and demanded a more equitable distribution of funds and resources.

Conclusion

The Union Budget 2024-25 has sparked significant controversy and disappointment in Telangana. The state government, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, has raised several critical points regarding unmet promises, biased fund allocation, and the neglect of key infrastructure and developmental projects. These issues underscore the ongoing challenges faced by Telangana in securing its rightful share of central resources and support.