TPCC chief challenges MLC Kavitha for open debate on BC welfare

Mahesh Kumar Goud Photo Credit: NAGARA GOPAL

Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president Mahesh Kumar Goud has thrown down the gauntlet to Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha, challenging her to an open debate on the welfare of Backward Classes (BCs). He accused the BRS of neglecting BCs during its decade-long rule and questioned the party’s motives behind its recent advocacy for the community.

In a statement here on Thursday, Mr. Goud alleged that the previous BRS government failed to utilise funds meant for BC welfare, leaving the community in distress. He criticised the Kalvakuntla family for what he termed ‘crocodile tears’ over BC issues, accusing them of using the community as a political tool after losing power. He described Ms. Kavitha’s proposed dharna at Indira Park as a ploy to regain political relevance following her diminished prominence in the party and her alleged involvement in the Delhi liquor scam.

Highlighting the initiatives of the Congress government under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, Mr. Goud pointed to significant steps such as a resolution for increasing BC reservations in local body elections from 23% to 42% in the Kamareddy BC declaration, steps to ensuring representation for 23,973 new BCs in panchayats and municipalities, and forming a committee led by retired IAS officer B. Venkateswara Rao to determine reservation percentages. He also noted the ongoing caste census and the enhanced allocation of ₹2,971.32 crore for BC welfare, which he claimed far exceeded the provisions made during the BRS regime.

Mr. Mahesh Kumar Goud questioned whether the BRS would ever appoint a BC leader as its party president, contrasting this with the Congress’ decision to elevate a BC leader to the TPCC presidency and prioritise BCs in the State Cabinet. He accused the BRS of sidelining BCs during its tenure and described their recent focus on BC issues as a desperate attempt to stay relevant. Calling on BCs to recognise what he termed as the BRS’ hypocrisy, he urged them to reject the party’s overtures and support the Congress government’s genuine efforts for their welfare.