Kadiyam Srihari Criticizes BRS Leaders Amid Development Initiatives

New Delhi, India Jul 22, 2026 ALN: Station Ghanpur: Former deputy chief minister Kadiyam Srihari made headlines on Tuesday as he publicly criticized leaders of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) while advocating for the Congress government's development initiatives in the region. Srihari's remarks came during a series of inaugurations in the villages of Maddelagudem and Velair, where he emphasized the government's commitment to improving irrigation and infrastructure, particularly through the Gandi Ramaram Lift Irrigation Scheme.

The Gandi Ramaram Lift Irrigation Scheme is a significant project aimed at harnessing water from the Godavari River to support agricultural activities in the Velair mandal. Srihari stated that the Congress government would ensure that Godavari water reaches every village in the area, which would allow farmers to cultivate two crops annually. This initiative is particularly critical in light of recent climatic challenges, including the impact of the El Nino phenomenon, which has led to a dry spell affecting agricultural productivity. The El Nino effect is known to disrupt weather patterns, often resulting in reduced rainfall and prolonged droughts in various regions, including parts of India. The Congress party's focus on irrigation projects aims to counter these adverse effects and bolster agricultural resilience.

During his address, Srihari inaugurated several development works, including CC roads and Indiramma houses, which were constructed at a total cost of Rs 43.40 lakh in Maddelagudem. The Indiramma housing scheme, initiated by the government, aims to provide housing for the economically weaker sections of society, reflecting the Congress party's focus on social welfare. Following this, he inaugurated additional infrastructure in Velair, which included CC roads valued at Rs 45 lakh, a school compound wall costing Rs 22.30 lakh, and a Village Organisation (VO) building constructed for Rs 10 lakh. These projects are part of a broader strategy to enhance rural infrastructure and improve living conditions in these communities. The emphasis on infrastructure development is crucial as it not only provides immediate benefits but also lays the groundwork for sustainable economic growth in the region.

Srihari's announcements extended beyond these inaugurations. He revealed plans to lay the foundation stones for new Mandal Revenue Officer (MRO) and Mandal Parishad Development Officer (MPDO) offices within a month, stating that Rs 4.20 crore had already been sanctioned for their construction. This move is indicative of the government's efforts to strengthen local governance and improve administrative efficiency in rural areas. Local governance plays a pivotal role in ensuring that development initiatives are effectively implemented and that the needs of the community are adequately addressed.

In addition to the new offices, Srihari highlighted significant investments in road infrastructure, announcing that the government had sanctioned Rs 8 crore for the Velair–Kommugutta double road, Rs 4.50 crore for the Velair–Shalapalli BT road, and Rs 13 crore for HAM road development works. He assured the public that all these projects would be completed within the next ten months, reflecting a commitment to timely execution of development initiatives. Improved road connectivity is essential for rural areas as it facilitates access to markets, education, and healthcare services, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Furthermore, the MLA expressed his intention to sanction an additional 20 Indiramma houses for Maddelagudem, signaling ongoing efforts to address housing needs in the area. This promise aligns with the Congress party's broader agenda of uplifting marginalized communities and ensuring that basic needs are met. Housing is a fundamental aspect of social welfare, and initiatives like the Indiramma scheme aim to provide safe and secure living conditions for those in need.

Addressing the challenges posed by the prevailing dry spell, Srihari advised farmers to consider planting drought-resistant crops. He assured them that the government was making every effort to facilitate access to Godavari waters through the Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme wherever feasible. This advice is crucial as it reflects the government's proactive approach to mitigating the effects of climate change on agriculture and ensuring food security for the region. The importance of adapting agricultural practices in response to climatic changes cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts food production and farmers' livelihoods.

In a sharp political attack on the BRS, Srihari accused the previous government of engaging in large-scale corruption, particularly in relation to the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. He claimed that BRS leaders were embroiled in internal disputes, accusing one another of diverting Rs 1,400 crore into party funds. These allegations not only highlight the contentious political climate in Telangana but also raise concerns about accountability and transparency in governance. Such accusations, if substantiated, could have serious implications for the BRS's credibility and electoral prospects. Corruption scandals can significantly erode public trust in political parties and institutions, making accountability a critical issue in the upcoming electoral cycles.

Moreover, Srihari emphasized that the Congress government is committed to transparent governance and public welfare, urging citizens not to be swayed by what he termed "false propaganda" from the BRS. This statement underscores the ongoing rivalry between the Congress and BRS parties, particularly as both prepare for upcoming elections. The political landscape in Telangana has been characterized by fierce competition, and the rhetoric surrounding development initiatives and governance is likely to intensify as parties vie for public support. Political narratives often shape public perception, and the ability of each party to effectively communicate its achievements and plans will be pivotal in the lead-up to elections.

The implications of Srihari's remarks extend beyond immediate political gains. They reflect broader concerns regarding governance, accountability, and the delivery of public services in Telangana. As the Congress government seeks to position itself as a viable alternative to the BRS, the focus on development projects, infrastructure improvements, and social welfare initiatives will be critical in shaping public perception and electoral outcomes. The effectiveness of these initiatives will not only influence voter sentiment but also determine the Congress party's ability to regain its foothold in Telangana politics.

In conclusion, Kadiyam Srihari's criticism of BRS leaders amid the inauguration of various development works highlights the ongoing political tensions in Telangana. His emphasis on irrigation projects, infrastructure development, and social welfare initiatives aligns with the Congress party's broader agenda of promoting rural development and addressing the needs of marginalized communities. As political dynamics continue to evolve, the effectiveness of these initiatives and the government's ability to deliver on its promises will play a crucial role in determining the future of governance in the state. The upcoming elections will serve as a litmus test for both the Congress and BRS parties, as they navigate the challenges of governance, public expectations, and the overarching goal of improving the lives of citizens in Telangana.