Former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao(KCR), the president of BRS, conveyed his heartfelt condolences on Saturday upon learning about the passing of Andalamma, the mother of BRS leader and Rajya Sabha member, Divakonda Damodar Rao. He extended his sympathies to the grieving family members and prayed for the departed soul to find eternal peace.
AP Assembly Polls: YSRCP to Unveil Election Manifesto in Nellore on March 10
Nellore in-charge and Rajya Sabha MP Vijaya Sai Reddy revealed on Saturday that the YSRCP is gearing up to unveil its election manifesto on March 10 in Nellore. This announcement came during a Siddham meeting held in Medarametla, Bapatla.
Addressing the media, Vijaya Sai Reddy highlighted that party president and Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy will elucidate the development and welfare initiatives accomplished over the past four years and ten months. Additionally, he will officially introduce the party’s election manifesto.
As preparations are underway for the Sidham meeting slated for March 10 in Bapatla, Vijaya Sai Reddy emphasized the significance of the event and its role in shaping the party’s electoral strategy.
Spanish Tourist Gang-Raped in India | 3 Arrested
A horrific incident has come to light from Jharkhand, India. A tourist from Spain was allegedly gang-raped late Friday night while traveling with her husband on their bikes.
According to reports, the couple was on a trip through India and had reached Dumka, Jharkhand. On Friday night, they decided to stop near a place called Kunji-Kurumahat. This is when tragedy struck.
A group of men, estimated to be around eight to ten, reportedly attacked the couple. They allegedly beat them both up and gang-raped the woman. The details of the incident are still emerging, with police withholding some information for investigative purposes.
However, it has been confirmed that the woman was admitted to a hospital for treatment. The police have also detained three people for questioning in connection with the crime.
This is a deeply disturbing incident, and it has understandably caused outrage. The police are currently investigating the case, and further information is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Standing Against Injustice: KTR Condemns Police Excesses
Addressing Police Excesses: KTR’s Firm Stand
BRS working president KTR expressed serious concern on Friday over the reported police excesses against BRS workers in Mulugu district for chanting ‘Jai Telangana’ slogans. En route to Medigadda, he met with the affected party workers in Parkal, assuring them of unwavering support from the party leadership during challenging times.
Condemnation and Protest: Against Partisan Attitude
In response to the incidents, KTR promptly contacted the District Superintendent of Police, lodging a strong protest against local police officials for their alleged biased conduct. He denounced the fabrication of false cases against BRS workers and emphasized that the party would not remain passive if its members were subjected to unjust summonses and harassment by law enforcement.
Impartiality and Accountability: Call for Ethical Conduct
Highlighting the importance of impartiality in law enforcement, KTR underscored that political power is transient and urged the police to uphold the legal framework in their actions. He emphasized that succumbing to political pressure undermines the integrity of the police force and called for adherence to ethical conduct.
Commitment to Support: Ensuring Justice
Assuring full support to party workers facing unwarranted legal action, KTR warned against any recurrence of such incidents, particularly the Parkal episode. He affirmed the party’s readiness to seek legal recourse and engage human rights organizations to address instances of police harassment. Despite challenges, he encouraged party members to remain steadfast and resilient.
Drawing from Experience: Lessons from the Past
Reflecting on historical parallels, KTR recalled the challenges faced by the party during the Statehood movement and urged party members not to be disheartened by current adversities. Despite the crackdown, local leaders conveyed ongoing police actions against BRS workers, prompting KTR to reiterate the party’s commitment to pursuing justice through legal avenues.
Empowering Education: Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme
Supporting Students: Jagananna Vidya Deevena Scheme with Rs 709 Crore
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy took a significant step on Friday by disbursing Rs 709 crore under the Jagananna Vidya Deevena scheme. This initiative, aimed at supporting the education of 9.4 lakh students in Pamarru, Krishna district, covers the total tuition fee for eligible students pursuing various courses including polytechnic, degree, engineering, and medicine.
Breaking Generational Poverty: Transformative Impact of Education
Addressing a public gathering, Chief Minister Reddy emphasized the transformative impact of the Jagananna Vidya Deevena scheme in breaking the cycle of generational poverty through education. With nearly 93% of students across the state benefiting from the scheme, it stands as a cornerstone in the government’s efforts to uplift disadvantaged communities through accessible education.
Educational Empowerment: Milestones Achieved
Highlighting the broader impact of his government’s education initiatives, Reddy underscored that over the past 57 months, approximately 30 lakh students have been beneficiaries of various educational schemes. However, the chief minister also touched upon the political challenges faced, particularly in advocating for English medium education in government schools.
Political Challenges: Advocating for English Medium Education
He criticized opposition leaders, including N Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan, for opposing this initiative, highlighting their preference for Telugu medium education despite their own children studying in English medium schools.
Caution Against False Promises: Upholding Tangible Progress
Reddy urged the public to remain vigilant against the false promises of the opposition, cautioning against extravagant pledges such as the distribution of gold and luxury cars. Instead, he called for support based on tangible improvements in households under his government’s tenure.
Call to Action: Continued Support for Progress
As the state gears up for legislative and Lok Sabha elections, the chief minister’s message resonates with a call for continued support based on the progress witnessed under his leadership.
BRS Leaders’ ‘Chalo Medigadda’ Mission: Countering Political Rivalry
Kaleshwaram Project Controversy: BRS Leaders Launch ‘Chalo Medigadda’ Campaign
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders embarked on a significant journey to the Medigadda barrage as part of their ‘Chalo Medigadda’ initiative aimed at combating what they perceive as propaganda by the Congress government against the Kaleshwaram project. Led by BRS Working President K. T. Rama Rao, the delegation, comprising MLAs, MLCs, and MPs, departed from Telangana Bhavan, the party headquarters in Hyderabad, with the notable absence of BRS President and former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao.
Medigadda Barrage Controversy: Political and Structural Challenges
The backdrop of this visit is the controversy surrounding the Medigadda barrage, where some piers sank in October the previous year, prompting the intervention of the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA). Both the Congress and BJP capitalized on the situation, alleging corruption and flaws in design and execution. The Congress government, since assuming power, ordered judicial and vigilance inquiries into the matter, exacerbating the political tension surrounding the project.
BRS Leaders’ Stand and Objectives
Ahead of the visit, K. T. Rama Rao reiterated the purpose of their endeavor, emphasizing the need to elucidate the benefits of the Kaleshwaram project to the public and urging immediate repairs to prevent agricultural setbacks. The BRS leaders condemned what they perceived as the Congress government’s prioritization of politics over farmers’ welfare, alleging a deliberate neglect of repairing damaged piers.
Rebutting Allegations and Advocating for Farmers
Senior BRS figures, including former Assembly Speaker Pocharam Srinivas Reddy and former irrigation minister T. Harish Rao, defended the project, refuting allegations and advocating for timely repairs to safeguard farmers’ interests. They accused the Congress of engaging in misinformation campaigns and emphasized the need for rectification without politicizing the issue. Through the ‘Chalo Medigadda’ campaign, the BRS aims to remind the government of its duty and educate the public on the project’s merits.
Harish Rao’s Presentation and Resolute Stance
During the visit, T. Harish Rao delivered a detailed presentation elucidating the project’s features and the benefits it brings to the state, underscoring the BRS’s commitment to protecting farmers’ rights and addressing structural concerns without succumbing to political agendas.
TDP-Jana Sena Alliance Rallies Against YSRCP Rule
Chandrababu Naidu and Pawan Kalyan Unite: TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu and Jana Sena leader Pawan Kalyan joined forces, calling on Andhra Pradesh residents to support their alliance and end what they termed as the “destructive” rule of the YSRCP.
Pledge to Restore State’s Prosperity: Addressing their first joint public meeting after announcing their seat-sharing agreement, Naidu and Kalyan launched a scathing attack on Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, urging the people to unite for the state’s reconstruction.
Chandrababu Naidu’s Criticisms: Naidu accused the YSRCP of misrule, highlighting issues such as the failure to achieve special category status, alleged harassment of cricketer Hanuma Vihari, and unanswered questions regarding the murder of former minister Y.S. Vivekananda Reddy.
Pawan Kalyan’s Resolve: Actor-turned-politician Pawan Kalyan vowed to politically defeat Jagan Mohan Reddy, dismissing criticism of accepting 24 Assembly seats and urging his supporters to trust and follow him in his mission.
TDP-Jana Sena Blueprint: Both leaders outlined their vision for the state’s development under their alliance, promising investment, wealth creation, and equitable distribution of resources, while also addressing dissent within their ranks and affirming their commitment to the party
MP Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy Resigns from YSRCP
YSRCP MP Magunta Srinivasulu Reddy has shocked many by tendering his resignation from the party, citing reasons related to internal dynamics and respect issues. His unexpected decision has stirred speculation, especially as his son, Magunta Raghava Reddy, gears up for a potential entry into politics by contesting the Ongole parliamentary constituency.
Anticipation Builds as PM Modi Plans Telangana Visit in March
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Telangana during the initial week of March, with plans to engage in various events across Adilabad and Sangareddy districts over a two-day span. Scheduled activities include attending developmental initiatives, addressing public gatherings, and inaugurating projects.
The visit holds significance as it marks PM Modi’s first appearance in Telangana since the state’s Assembly elections in late November. The BJP’s state leadership is actively preparing for the visit, aiming to bolster support ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, following the party’s notable performance in both the previous parliamentary and assembly elections.
BJP Rajya Sabha Member K Laxman Criticizes Congress Over LPG Cylinder Promise
Accusing Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of deceiving the people of the State, BJP Rajya Sabha member K. Laxman lambasted the Congress party for reneging on its promise to provide domestic LPG cylinders at Rs.500 per refill to all households. Speaking at a road show during the ongoing Vijay Sankalp Yatra in the Old City, Laxman criticized the state government for limiting the Maha Lakshmi scheme’s benefits to only 40 lakh households instead of the promised 90 lakh.
He labeled the move as election ploys, predicting that the scheme would be scrapped after the Lok Sabha elections. Additionally, Laxman accused the AIMIM of neglecting the Old City and alleged that Telangana’s funds were being diverted to support Congress elections nationwide.
Congress Ticket Race Heats Up with More Entrants in Khammam
The contest for the Lok Sabha Congress ticket in Khammam is heating up, with unexpected contenders joining the fray. Jetti Kusum Kumar, previously not considered a candidate, surprised local party leaders by announcing his candidacy at a media conference held at the Khammam DCC office.
Kusum Kumar, citing his long-standing association with the party and the Khammam community, emphasized his eligibility for the ticket based on his experience and service. This declaration, shared on social media platforms, adds another dimension to the race, already crowded with prominent figures like Renuka Chowdary, V Hanumanth Rao, and others vying for the coveted nomination.
Amidst this competition, the emergence of businessman Vankayalapati Rajendra Prasad, reportedly supported by minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, adds further complexity to the selection process. As aspirants campaign vigorously and party dynamics evolve, the battle for the Khammam Lok Sabha ticket promises to be fiercely contested.
Harish Rao Slams Congress Over LRS Promise Betrayal
Former Minister T Harish Rao criticized the Congress party for reneging on its commitment to the Layout Regularisation Scheme (LRS), accusing them of a habitual pattern of deception. He highlighted that during elections, the Congress had promised to waive fees for the LRS and regularize layouts at no cost.
However, upon assuming power, they reversed their stance and began charging hefty fees, betraying the public’s trust. Harish Rao emphasized that Congress leaders had incited the public against the BRS with slogans like ‘No LRS – No BRS,’ and demanded either the implementation of the LRS without fees as promised or an unconditional apology for their deceitful conduct.
Chalo Medigadda: BRS KTR Takes Action Against KLIS Project Delay
BRS working president and former Minister K.T. Rama Rao expressed concerns over the suspicious delay in rehabilitating the Medigadda barrage and other vital components of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS). He asserted that the BRS would lead a “Chalo Medigadda” campaign on March 1 to unveil the hidden motives of the Revanth Reddy-led government, which has been undermining the project’s significance.
Highlighting the Congress government’s alleged negligence towards urgent repairs in Medigadda and addressing seepage issues in Annaram barrage, Rao emphasized a possible agenda to undermine the project’s benefits, which aimed to alleviate water scarcity by harnessing 240 tmc of Godavari water. The deliberate shelving of project expansion plans, he claimed, further fueled suspicions.
Rao announced plans to mobilize all party representatives, including MPs, MLAs, and former legislators, to visit the project site as part of the “Chalo Medigadda” initiative. He stressed the urgency of erecting a coffer dam to stabilize the structure and resume water pumping to support the Kharif ayacut. Rao warned against any vindictive actions targeting the farming community, urging sincere government efforts for swift rehabilitation.
Shameful Treatment of Hanuma Vihari: Chandrababu Naidu and Sharmila Speak Out
Chandrababu Naidu, the leader of the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), and Sharmila Reddy, representing the Andhra Pradesh Congress, have strongly criticized the alleged mistreatment of cricketer Hanuma Vihari. They described the incident as shameful and indicative of the deteriorating state of affairs under the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP).
Naidu expressed his dismay over the Andhra Cricket Association’s perceived capitulation to what he termed as vindictive politics by the YSRCP. He stood in solidarity with Vihari, applauding the cricketer’s integrity and commitment to the game while condemning the actions that led to his decision to sever ties with Andhra Pradesh cricket.
Sharmila Reddy echoed similar sentiments, denouncing the YSRCP government’s interference in sports and calling for an impartial investigation into the matter. She criticized the YSRCP’s track record, suggesting that their actions were tarnishing the state’s reputation across various domains.
The incident unfolded after Andhra Pradesh’s narrow loss to Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy quarter-final, prompting Vihari to reveal on social media that he was forced to step down as captain following a dispute with a player, whose father holds a political position and allegedly complained to the cricket association. This episode has sparked outrage and raised concerns about political interference in sports, with both Naidu and Sharmila demanding accountability and justice for Hanuma Vihari.
Naidu Bail: Naidu Family Accused of Intimidating Officials: Supreme Court to Review Bail Conditions
Andhra Pradesh Government Urges Supreme Court to Cancel Naidu Bail
The Andhra Pradesh government has petitioned the Supreme Court to revoke the bail granted to TDP chief N Chandrababu Naidu in the skill development corporation scam, citing alleged attempts by his family members to intimidate public servants.
Allegations of Intimidation by Naidu’s Family
In a plea against the Andhra Pradesh High Court’s bail order, the state contends that Naidu’s family members have publicly threatened to take action against officers involved in the probe once they come to power, prompting concerns of obstruction of justice.
Additional Documents Sought
The state has requested permission to submit transcripts of interviews given by Naidu’s son, Nara Lokesh, alleging that both Nara Lokesh and Naidu have made statements intended to intimidate government officials and impede the investigation.
Bail Conditions Under Scrutiny
While Naidu’s legal team prepares to respond to the application, the Supreme Court has indicated a review of bail conditions, particularly given the alleged threats posed by Naidu’s family members ahead of elections.
Background and Allegations
Naidu faces charges of misappropriating funds from the Andhra Pradesh State Skill Development Corporation during his tenure as chief minister, with accusations of causing significant financial losses to the state. Despite his denials, the case has drawn widespread attention and legal scrutiny.
Telangana Development Promises: BRS Leader Slams BJP
BRS leader Manne Krishank accused the BJP of playing politics ahead of the upcoming Parliamentary elections, criticizing them for neglecting Telangana development promises over the past decade. He slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi for failing to fulfill commitments made to the state, despite numerous announcements and campaigns.
Krishank expressed disappointment with Modi’s frequent visits to Telangana for election purposes, highlighting the lack of substantial progress. Despite promising initiatives during his visits, Krishank noted that no concrete steps have been taken to fulfill them, leaving Telangana behind in development allocations compared to other states like Gujarat and Uttar Pradesh.
Krishank dubbed the BJP as the “Big Jhoota Party,” criticizing their delay in fulfilling promises such as establishing the Turmeric Board. He also criticized the Congress for not holding the BJP accountable in Parliament and questioned Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s effectiveness in representing Telangana’s interests at the national level.
Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra Takes a Spiritual Turn: Rahul Gandhi to Visit Mahakaleshwar Temple
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is taking a short break from his ongoing Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra to attend important meetings in Delhi and deliver lectures at his alma mater, Cambridge University. However, before resuming the march on March 2nd, Gandhi will make a significant stop at the Mahakaleshwar temple in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, on March 5th.
This marks Gandhi’s second visit to the temple during the Yatra, which aims to cover 6,700 kilometers across 15 states in the lead-up to the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Interestingly, the Yatra will also see a boost with the addition of Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, who will join her brother in Moradabad on Saturday.
The five-day break offers a glimpse into the multi-faceted nature of the Yatra, which balances political campaigning with personal commitments and a focus on religious inclusivity. While Gandhi addresses key issues in Delhi, his visit to the Mahakaleshwar temple strengthens the Yatra’s message of national unity and cultural understanding.
Telangana MLA Lasya Nanditha Dies in Road Accident, Political Leaders Offer Condolences
Telangana was struck by a wave of grief today with the sudden demise of Secunderabad Cantonment MLA G Lasya Nanditha, who passed away in a road accident on the outskirts of Hyderabad. The 37-year-old legislator, who had just begun her first term in the Assembly, succumbed to injuries sustained after her car lost control and collided with a divider on the Outer Ring Road.
Leaders across the political spectrum expressed their shock and condolences:
- Former Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao: Visited the residence of Lasya’s father, the late MLA G Sayanna, to pay respects and offered support to the family. He praised Lasya’s accomplishments as a young leader and pledged the BRS party’s support during this difficult time.
- Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy: Recalled his association with Lasya’s father and offered his deepest condolences to the family. He stated that Telangana has lost a promising legislator.
- BRS Working President KT Rama Rao: Shared his shock and sorrow, recalling Lasya as a promising leader in the making. He offered prayers for strength to the family and shared his memories of their recent meeting, where Lasya had a narrow escape in a previous road accident.
- Telangana BJP President and Union Minister G Kishan Reddy: Expressed sadness at the loss of Lasya, who had a bright future ahead. He recalled her active participation in politics and extended condolences to the family.
- Telugu Desam Party (TDP) National President and former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu: Offered his condolences and stated that Lasya had a bright future cut short.
Others who expressed their condolences include:
- BRS MLC K Kavitha
- Former Ministers T Harish Rao, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, S Niranjan Reddy, A Indrakaran Reddy
- Telangana Assembly Speaker Gaddam Prasad
- Council Chairman Gutha Sukhender Reddy
- Ministers D Sridhar Babu, Konda Surekha, Ponnam Prabhakar
- BJP State president Bandi Sanjay Kumar
- Congress leaders Manickam Tagore, S Jaipal Reddy
Lasya’s journey in politics:
The daughter of former MLA G Sayanna, Lasya carved her own path in politics. Elected as a corporator from Kavadiguda in 2016, she rose to become an MLA in the 2023 Telangana Assembly elections, representing the Secunderabad Cantonment constituency. Her untimely demise comes as a shock to the state’s political landscape, leaving a void that will be difficult to fill.
Tributes and final respects:
Lasya’s body was brought to her father’s residence in Karkhana, where senior BRS party leaders, well-wishers, and family members paid their final respects. The mortal remains are expected to be kept there till Friday afternoon before the last rites are performed.
This tragic accident has left a deep impact on Telangana, with leaders and citizens alike mourning the loss of a young and promising politician. Lasya Nanditha’s contributions to public service will be remembered, and her memory will continue to inspire others.
Chalo Secretariat Clash: Police Detain Opposition Leader Sharmila in AP
Tension boiled over in Andhra Pradesh as police virtually detained YS Sharmila Reddy, sister of the Chief Minister and head of the opposition Congress party, to prevent a protest against unemployment. The dramatic scene unfolded when Sharmila, who spent the night at the party office to avoid house arrest, was confined within along with other leaders.
The protest, dubbed “Chalo Secretariat,” aimed to pressure the ruling YSRCP government to address the plight of unemployed youth and students. They demanded filling vacant teacher positions through a Mega District Selection Committee (DSC) and criticized the government for issuing notifications for only 6,000 posts, despite promising 23,000.
Police deployed in large numbers and arrested key Congress figures like Rudra Raju and Mastan Vali, creating chaos and heated arguments. The action sparked outrage, with Sharmila calling it a “shameful” attack on democracy and demanding the release of detained leaders.
Despite the hurdles, Sharmila vowed to continue the protest within the party office, highlighting the party’s resolve to fight for the unemployed despite facing government roadblocks.
This incident adds another layer to the already tense political atmosphere in Andhra Pradesh, raising questions about freedom of expression and the government’s approach to dissent. It remains to be seen how this saga unfolds and what impact it has on the upcoming elections.
Condoms, Campaigns, and Controversy: A Look at the Latest Twist in AP Elections
Forget wall clocks, sarees, and electronics! Election season in India is getting spicy with a new twist: candidates handing out branded condoms!
Yes, you read that right. As polls for India’s parliament and the Andhra Pradesh state assembly heat up, two major parties are making waves with their unique campaign gifts.
YSRCP, one of the parties, shared a video showing condoms with the logo of their rival, TDP. They called it “publicity madness” and joked about the other party handing out Viagra next!
TDP fired back with a video of their own, showing condoms branded with YSRCP’s logo. They questioned the other party’s “election preparedness” with a playful jab.
This unusual campaign strategy has sparked online discussions. Some find it funny, while others raise concerns about ethics and respect.
One thing’s for sure: these branded condoms are definitely grabbing attention! Whether it’s a good or bad kind of attention is up for debate, but it’s certainly unique.
So, what do you think? Is this a clever campaign tactic or a step too far? Let us know in the comments!