In Hyderabad, the upcoming session of the Telangana Assembly promises to be intense as the ruling Congress and main opposition BRS (Bharatiya Rashtravadi Samanata Party) prepare for a fiery showdown.
Both parties are gearing up to make significant gains ahead of the local body elections. The Congress plans to spotlight what it perceives as the "misdeeds" of the previous BRS administration to corner the opposition. On the other hand, the BRS intends to highlight issues such as the defection of its leaders, unfulfilled promises by the Congress, and more.
A significant question looming over the session is whether BRS leader K Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) will attend. As the Leader of Opposition, KCR's presence could significantly impact the dynamics of the session. Sources indicate that KCR plans to attend on July 25, particularly when Finance Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka presents the Budget. His absence in previous sessions has allowed the Congress to criticize the BRS more openly.
In past sessions, the BRS has effectively challenged the ruling party on various issues including the Kaleshwaram project, Rythu Bharosa (farmer support scheme), and budgetary matters, even in KCR's absence. However, recent defections of 10 MLAs to the Congress have weakened the BRS, though it still retains formidable leaders like T Harish Rao, KT Rama Rao, and others.
The Opposition aims to critique the government on issues such as farm loan waivers, Rythu Bharosa, and pending pensions. In response, the Congress may counter with allegations of irregularities during the BRS regime, concerns over financial management, and accusations related to the Kaleshwaram project and power purchase agreements.
Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy is expected to raise the contentious issue of phone-tapping, accusing the BRS of surveillance on opposition leaders, journalists, judges, and dissenters during its tenure.
Both sides are gearing up with strategies to discredit the other, making it clear that the upcoming Assembly session will be marked by intense political exchanges and strategic maneuvering as they vie for public support and electoral advantage.