Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy strongly criticized the previous Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government, accusing it of corrupting the administrative system during its 10-year rule. Speaking at the Telangana Gazetted Officers Association’s event on Friday, Reddy highlighted his government’s efforts to restore transparency and efficiency in governance since assuming office.
“The entire administrative system has been corrupted for the last 10 years. My government tried to restore the administrative system soon after coming to power,” Reddy stated.
Financial Challenges and Revenue Shortfall
Reddy outlined the state’s financial challenges, revealing that Telangana earns Rs 18,500 crore in monthly revenue, far short of the Rs 30,000 crore needed to run the government efficiently. He explained the allocation of funds:
- Rs 6,500 crore: Salaries and allowances of government employees
- Rs 6,500 crore: Debt repayment
- Rs 5,500 crore: Welfare schemes
“At least Rs 22,500 crores is required for minimum needs. At present, the government is earning Rs 4,000 crore less than the minimum requirement of money,” he said, adding that it would take time to address the state’s economic hurdles.
Commitment to Employees
Reddy emphasized his administration’s commitment to employees by ensuring timely salary payments and seeking their suggestions for transparent spending of state revenues. He assured them that their problems could be resolved through dialogue rather than protests.
“The government is ready to address the problems, if any, facing the employees. No need to hold protests. Problems can be solved only through discussions,” he urged, cautioning against politically motivated agitation.
Outsourcing and Contract Employees
Addressing the concerns of outsourcing and contract employees, Reddy clarified that regularization under centrally sponsored schemes like the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is not feasible. He warned that demanding regularization against the rules could lead to legal challenges.
“We want to regularize outsourcing and contract employees, but we can’t do it. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is a centrally sponsored scheme. If the staff is regularized against the rules, the employees will have to face problems in the courts,” he explained.
A Call for Cooperation
Reddy appealed to employees to collaborate in increasing government revenue, assuring them that his administration would not take harsh measures. He reiterated his government’s dedication to welfare and transparent governance.
“Revenue should be increased by another Rs. 4,000 crores every month. Steps will be taken to ensure that welfare schemes reach the real beneficiaries. This government is ours. It is in the employees’ hands whether to increase the revenues or distribute the money,” Reddy concluded.