“KTR Highlights Economic Growth Under KCR’s Leadership, Criticizes Current Congress Government’s Negligence”
Hyderabad September 18 2024 :– Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President KT Rama Rao defended the legacy of former Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) on Wednesday, emphasizing that his achievements are irrefutable. This statement came in response to a report by the Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council, which lauded Telangana’s remarkable progress in per capita income.
In a post on X, KT Rama Rao underscored, “Numbers never lie, and KCR’s achievements can never be erased.” He elaborated that the report reflects Telangana’s outstanding growth under BRS leadership, with the state’s per capita income now 94 percent higher than the national average, a significant leap in just 9.5 years.
The Economic Advisory Council’s report highlighted that Southern states, including Telangana, have shown robust growth in per capita income since the 1990s, outperforming the national average following economic liberalization.
In a separate social media post, KT Rama Rao criticized current Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for alleged negligence. He pointed out the recent flooding at the Vattem pump house of the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS), which occurred on September 3. KT Rama Rao expressed concerns over the slow response to the situation, with only one meter of water drained so far, leaving 18 more meters to be addressed.
“While CM Revanth Reddy is preoccupied with less pressing matters, such as the origins of computers and appeasing Delhi, he seems to be neglecting crucial issues like the recent flooding at PRLIS,” KT Rama Rao remarked. He urged the Chief Minister to focus on addressing the urgent needs of Telangana and its farmers.
Straight from the horse's mouth!
The PM's Economic Advisory Council has testified to the tremendous growth of Telangana under BRS rule.
Telangana, registering a per capita income 94% higher than the national average in just 9.5 years, proves how KCR garu has made Telangana a… https://t.co/poJ37ZGFzy
After a gap of ten years, Jammu and Kashmir is set to witness a crucial democratic exercise as 24 constituencies from seven districts will vote in the first phase of the three-phase Assembly elections. The elections, taking place in the Union Territory (UT), mark a significant political milestone. Prominent districts participating in the vote include Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, and Kulgam in the Kashmir division, as well as Doda, Ramban, and Kishtwar in the Jammu division.
This phase of the elections features 219 candidates vying for legislative seats, with over 23.27 lakh voters set to participate. Polling will be conducted from 7 am to 6 pm amidst heightened security arrangements to ensure a smooth and peaceful electoral process.
Key Constituencies and Candidates
The Kashmir division holds 16 of the 24 constituencies, including Pampore, Tral, Pulwama, and Anantnag West. The Jammu division, on the other hand, features eight constituencies, including Kishtwar, Bhadarwah, and Ramban. Among the key political figures contesting in this phase are former J&K Congress chief Ghulam Ahmad Mir, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti’s daughter Iltija Mufti, senior Communist leader Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, PDP’s Waheed Para, and Jamaat-e-Islami-backed candidate Sayar Ahmad Reshi from Kulgam.
The National Conference and Congress are contesting under a pre-poll alliance, while Jamaat-e-Islami has made a comeback after 35 years, supporting several independent candidates in the region. A “strategic pact” was also formed between Jamaat-e-Islami and Awami Ittehad Party, led by MP Engineer Rashid.
Voter Demographics and Arrangements
Out of the total electorate of 23,27,580 voters, 11.76 lakh are men, 11.51 lakh are women, and 60 are from the third gender. A notable feature of this election is the inclusion of 5.66 lakh voters in the 18-29 age bracket, with 1.23 lakh voters aged between 18 and 19 years.
The state election commission has established 3,276 polling stations, with 24 Pink Polling Stations to be managed exclusively by women. Special polling booths will also be dedicated to differently-abled individuals, youth, and environmental conservation efforts through 24 “Green Polling Stations.”
The election will decide the fate of 64 candidates in Anantnag, 45 in Pulwama, 27 in Doda, 25 in Kulgam, 22 in Kishtwar, 21 in Shopian, and 15 in Ramban, making this a highly competitive electoral battle across the region.
This historic election, spread across three phases, holds great significance as Jammu and Kashmir returns to electoral politics after years of political uncertainty. The results of this phase will pave the way for the next steps in the region’s democratic process.
“Innovation Overcomes Adversity: Rural Farmers in Telangana Highlight the Need for Infrastructure Support”
Vikarabad/ Telangana : September 17 2024 :- The proverb “Necessity is the mother of invention” rings true once again in Nag Samandar, a small village in Yelal Mandal, Tandur constituency of Vikarabad district, where local farmers have devised an ingenious solution to cross a river and reach their fields. In the face of adversity, these farmers have crafted makeshift boats from plastic drums and fashioned paddles using silver plates. While this scene might captivate onlookers, for the farmers, this risky endeavor is born out of sheer necessity.
Due to continuous heavy rains over the past week, the Shiva Sagar Project in Yelal Mandal has overflowed, causing excess water to flow through the Kakraveni River, which passes by Nag Samandar village. The farmers, who cultivate fields on the opposite side of the river, found themselves unable to cross the floodwaters. For several days, they attempted to wade through the waist-deep water, carrying their clothes and essentials on their heads, just to tend to their crops.
Faced with this challenge, the farmers ingeniously transformed plastic drums into functional boats, securing them with iron nuts and bolts and sealing the gaps to ensure water-tightness. To complete their invention, they crafted wooden paddles fitted with silver plates. Now, every day, these farmers cross the river in their makeshift boats to tend to their crops and return before dusk.
Seeing their success, other villagers followed suit, building similar boats. However, these vessels are small and only accommodate three people at a time, along with their agricultural tools and lunch. Since these boats are homemade and not professionally constructed, the farmers live in constant fear of accidents in the fast-flowing river.
The farmers are now calling for a permanent solution: the construction of a bridge over the Kakraveni River. They urge Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, whose Kodangal constituency is just 10 kilometers away, and Tandur MLA B. Manohar Reddy to address this pressing issue.
What these farmers have achieved can only be described as an act of innovation. Their courage and determination to find a solution in the face of adversity send a strong message: where there is will and resolve, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
Rather than waiting for weeks for the water level to recede or blaming the government, these farmers took matters into their own hands. Their resourcefulness stands as a testament to the talent and resilience found in even the most remote parts of Telangana.
While it’s undeniable that educational opportunities in rural areas may be lacking, the creativity and practical ingenuity of these farmers prove that Telangana has no shortage of talent. It is, however, imperative for the government to address these infrastructural gaps and provide much-needed support, particularly to those who refuse to be victims of circumstance.
Hyderabad: Telangana has experienced an unusually wet monsoon this year, recording rainfall levels 34% above the state’s seasonal average. From June 1 to September 17, the state accumulated 898.1 mm of rainfall, significantly higher than the normal 668.6 mm for the same period.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned of an extended monsoon due to the development of a new low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, which is expected to bring continued rainfall in Telangana and other southern states through late September.
Several districts in Telangana have seen significant deviations from average rainfall, with Wanaparthy, Narayanpet, Mahabubnagar, Jogulamba Gadwal, and Nagarkurnool experiencing 78% to 102% excess rainfall. In contrast, Kamareddy, Hanumakonda, Yadadri Bhongir, Jangaon, Kumuram Bheem, Adilabad, and Mancherial reported normal rainfall, while 21 other districts observed excess rainfall ranging from 20% to 59%.
The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) area also recorded 693.6 mm of rainfall, which is 27% higher than its normal 547.8 mm, leading to localized flooding and disruptions across the region.
Meteorologists are monitoring the situation closely, predicting that the monsoon retreat, which usually begins from Western Rajasthan by mid-September, may extend into October due to the low-pressure systems developing over the Bay of Bengal.
As Telangana continues to experience rainfall beyond the expected period, authorities are on high alert, particularly in the districts of Mahabubabad, Khammam, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Suryapet, where severe cloudbursts earlier this month caused extensive damage. The government has been actively coordinating efforts to mitigate the risks posed by further rainfall and to safeguard communities in the affected areas.
Plot to Disrupt? Peace Exposed, Investigation Underway
Hyderabad, September 17 2024 :- A potentially serious attempt to disturb the peaceful environment in the city has been uncovered during the Ganesh immersion procession at Charminar. Tension escalated when a group of Muslim youngsters intercepted a burqa-clad woman, who was later found to belong to a different community, along with a male companion.
According to eyewitnesses, the woman, a resident of Warangal, was seen moving suspiciously in the old city along with her friend, also a native of Warangal. The duo was reportedly traveling on a motorcycle through a highly sensitive area during the immersion procession. On spotting them, a few vigilant youngsters, noticing the man’s suspicious behavior, stopped the pair and began questioning their presence in the vicinity.
The situation quickly attracted a large crowd, prompting swift intervention from the local police. The couple was immediately escorted to the police station to avoid any escalation of tension. The police have launched a detailed investigation into the matter, trying to determine whether this was part of a larger plot to disrupt the otherwise peaceful proceedings of the religious event.
Preliminary inquiries suggest that the pair might have been involved in an attempt to sow discord during the festival, but authorities are keeping all possibilities open as the investigation unfolds. The police are looking into the duo’s intentions and are in the process of gathering further evidence.
Officials are urging the public to remain calm and avoid jumping to conclusions while the investigation is ongoing.
“A New Chapter Begins: Arvind Kejriwal Submits His Resignation to the Governor, While Atishi Presents Her Claim as Delhi’s Next Chief Minister.”
Delhi. September 17,2024 :- In a dramatic turn of events, Arvind Kejriwal, the National Convenor of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), resigned from his position as Delhi Chief Minister on Tuesday, September 17. Kejriwal presented his resignation to Delhi’s Lieutenant Governor, Vinai Kumar Saxena, in a move that marks a significant shift in Delhi’s political landscape. Accompanied by his Cabinet ministers and Atishi—his appointed successor—Kejriwal’s resignation follows a series of high-stakes political maneuvers and legal challenges.
The decision to resign comes on the heels of mounting political tension and a recent legal development. Kejriwal, who was recently granted bail in the excise policy case, had announced his intention to resign and call for early elections in Delhi on September 16. This announcement came amid ongoing scrutiny and allegations related to the excise policy.
In the days leading up to his resignation, Delhi’s political scene was abuzz with activity. A crucial meeting was held at Kejriwal’s residence at 11:30 am, where strategic discussions took place. During this meeting, Delhi Minister Gopal Rai revealed that the AAP legislative party had convened and unanimously appointed Atishi as the interim Chief Minister. Rai noted, “Atishi will serve as the Chief Minister until the next Delhi elections, and the remaining members of the cabinet will be sworn in after she takes office.”
AAP spokesperson Anmol Panwar lauded Kejriwal’s tenure, emphasizing his role as a “symbol of morality and integrity in politics.” Panwar also mentioned that the final decisions regarding the new cabinet will be made post-Atishi’s swearing-in.
Kejriwal’s resignation comes in the wake of a series of strategic meetings conducted by the AAP to address internal feedback and political strategy. These meetings were aimed at navigating the complex political environment and preparing for the forthcoming electoral challenges. The party’s decision to appoint Atishi as the new Chief Minister reflects a strategic move to stabilize the administration and prepare for the upcoming electoral battles.
The resignation and subsequent appointment of Atishi mark a pivotal moment in Delhi’s political landscape, with potential implications for the future of AAP’s governance and electoral prospects in the capital.
Delhi September 17, 2024 :- In a significant ruling today, the Supreme Court of India temporarily halted all demolition actions in the country, commonly referred to as “bulldozer actions,” without prior approval from the Court. The directive, passed by a bench comprising Justices BR Gavai and KV Viswanathan, clarified that demolitions in public areas like streets, footpaths, railway lines, and waterbodies would not be affected by this order.
This interim decision comes in response to a batch of petitions accusing several state governments of using demolitions as a punitive measure against individuals charged with crimes. The Court scheduled the next hearing for October 1, 2024.
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta opposed the Court’s directive, arguing that it would tie the hands of statutory authorities and hinder essential actions. The bench, however, dismissed these concerns, stating, “Heavens won’t fall if demolitions are halted for two weeks.” Justice Gavai emphasized that the order would not interfere with the demolition of unauthorized constructions on public property.
The Court invoked its powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to pass the directive. Justice Viswanathan reinforced that illegal demolitions, even in one instance, are against the ethos of the Constitution.
Earlier submissions by Senior Advocate Chander Uday Singh highlighted that demolitions continued despite the Court’s previous warnings. Referring to a recent incident where a house was demolished after its owner was accused of stone-pelting, Singh stressed the urgent need for judicial intervention.
While the Solicitor General argued that demolitions were legal and followed due process, with notices served in 2022, the Court questioned the timing and rationale behind the demolitions in 2024. Justice Viswanathan noted that public statements from officials and ministers justifying the use of bulldozers further complicated the issue.
The Court reiterated its intention to establish guidelines addressing concerns over the misuse of demolition actions, particularly in politically sensitive situations. Parties involved were instructed to submit their suggestions for these guidelines. The Jamiat Ulama I Hind, among others, had previously submitted its recommendations, which will be considered in future hearings.
In a major political shift for Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal is set to resign as the Chief Minister of the National Capital Territory. His resignation, scheduled to be formally submitted to Lt. Governor VK Saxena at 4:30 PM today, has sent ripples across the political spectrum. The move comes after intense deliberation within the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), which has selected senior leader and Delhi MLA Atishi Marlena to take over the reins as the interim Chief Minister.
This decision is seen as a temporary measure ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, slated for early next year, where AAP intends to reinstate Arvind Kejriwal at the helm. Despite stepping down, Kejriwal remains the face of the party and its leadership. Atishi, in her first public statement after being chosen, acknowledged this sentiment, declaring, “There is only one Chief Minister of Delhi, and that is Arvind Kejriwal.”
She further stated that her “only objective” as interim CM is to ensure Kejriwal’s return to power. “My focus is on steering the governance of Delhi smoothly until we can restore Arvind Kejriwal to his rightful position as Chief Minister. This is my singular mission,” she said, underscoring her commitment to the party’s goal of reinstating him after the elections.
AAP’s Reaction to Kejriwal’s Resignation
The announcement of Kejriwal’s resignation was met with mixed emotions within the AAP. Sandeep Pathak, AAP MP, described the party’s decision to accept Kejriwal’s resignation as one taken “with a heavy heart.” Addressing reporters, Pathak expressed that while Atishi is a capable leader, the party’s ultimate goal remains the return of Kejriwal as Chief Minister. He emphasized that the resignation is a consequence of the political challenges faced by Kejriwal, who has been embroiled in allegations that he wants to clear before reclaiming the top position.
Pathak stated, “This is not just a change of leadership but a pause in Kejriwal’s leadership journey. He has made it clear that he will not accept the position until he passes this ‘agnipariksha’ (trial by fire) and is declared innocent by the people. Only then will he resume his responsibilities.”
The AAP leader also pointed out that the resignation would likely lead to the dissolution of the current cabinet. “Whenever a Chief Minister resigns, it is customary for the entire cabinet to be dissolved. This is part of the process, and we are prepared for it,” said Pathak, adding that Atishi will serve as a caretaker leader until the next elections.
Lt. Governor Welcomes Atishi’s Appointment
Delhi Lt. Governor VK Saxena confirmed that Kejriwal is scheduled to meet him at Raj Bhavan later today to hand over his resignation letter. He also welcomed Atishi’s appointment as the interim Chief Minister, acknowledging the legislative process that led to her selection. “Atishi’s name has been put forward by the MLAs, and as per the legislative process, she has been chosen to fill the role temporarily. She is welcome to take over,” said Saxena.
Saxena’s comments have been seen as a formal endorsement of the political transition, although the central focus remains on the larger picture—Kejriwal’s eventual return. Atishi’s appointment is largely viewed as a strategic move by AAP, providing temporary stability while keeping the spotlight on Kejriwal, who has been the party’s core leader since its inception.
Atishi’s Role as Interim CM and The Road Ahead
Atishi, an education reformer and long-time member of AAP, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She has played a key part in shaping Delhi’s educational policies and has been a trusted ally of Kejriwal throughout his tenure. However, her appointment is understood to be temporary, and her main task will be to maintain governance stability in Delhi until the elections.
While Atishi’s leadership capabilities are not in question, the broader political narrative remains centered on Kejriwal. His resignation is seen as part of a larger political strategy, aimed at addressing the allegations against him, clearing his name, and positioning himself for a comeback in the upcoming elections. AAP’s internal discussions indicate that the party will rally around Kejriwal, with his return to power being the ultimate objective.
Atishi herself has made it clear that her leadership is interim and solely focused on ensuring Kejriwal’s return. “My only objective is to make sure Arvind Kejriwal becomes the Chief Minister again,” she declared, reiterating her loyalty to the party’s primary leader.
As Delhi gears up for elections early next year, Atishi’s role as interim Chief Minister will be crucial in ensuring that the governance of the city runs smoothly. However, for both AAP and its supporters, the focus will undoubtedly remain on Arvind Kejriwal’s path to vindication and his eventual reinstatement as the Chief Minister of Delhi.
This leadership transition marks a turning point for AAP, as it navigates the challenges of maintaining public confidence while preparing for the electoral battle ahead. Atishi’s appointment, while significant, is seen as part of a broader political play, where Kejriwal’s return to power remains the focal point.
Toronto/Hyderabad: A tragic incident occurred in Toronto, Canada, where a student from Hyderabad, Praneeth, drowned in a lake while celebrating his brother’s birthday.
Praneeth, a resident of Meerpet in Ranga Reddy district, had been pursuing his MS degree at a Canadian university. On Sunday, he, along with a group of friends, went boating in a lake in Toronto as part of the birthday celebrations. However, the joyous occasion soon turned into tragedy when Praneeth accidentally fell into the lake.
Despite immediate efforts to rescue him, Praneeth drowned before help could arrive. The local police were promptly informed, and authorities have since launched an operation to recover his body. An investigation has also been initiated to determine the circumstances that led to the accident.
The devastating news reached Praneeth’s family in Hyderabad on Monday through one of his friends. The family is in contact with Praneeth’s friends in Canada, who are coordinating with local authorities regarding further procedures.
Hyderabad – Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy unveiled a statue of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi in front of the Secretariat, highlighting Gandhi’s significant contributions to technology in India. The statue joins those of Indira Gandhi, PV Narasimha Rao, and the Martyrs Memorial, honoring leaders who have shaped the nation’s history.
In his address, Reddy lauded Rajiv Gandhi for his role in introducing computers and promoting technological advancements. He underscored the importance of recognizing Gandhi’s legacy amidst the statues of other prominent leaders and emphasized the sacrifices made by the Gandhi family, who chose not to hold any positions after Rajiv Gandhi’s death, thus setting an example of selfless service.
Reddy initially stated that the unveiling was not intended as a political event, yet he could not resist addressing the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS)’s ongoing criticism. The BRS has been vocal about their opposition to the statue, arguing that it was a politically motivated move. In response, Reddy challenged the BRS to specify a date for relocating the statue and warned that they would face repercussions for their stance.
Addressing the criticisms, Reddy defended the installation of the statue by reflecting on the historical sacrifices made by the Nehru-Gandhi family. He pointed out that Indira Gandhi did not assume any political role during her tenure as Prime Minister, and Rajiv Gandhi stepped into leadership during a critical period, driving a technological revolution that transformed the country.
The Chief Minister’s comments also aimed to counter BRS allegations by affirming the historical significance of Rajiv Gandhi’s contributions and reinforcing the importance of commemorating leaders who have played a pivotal role in India’s development.
