Ponnam Prabhakar Slams Centre for Denying CM Revanth Reddy Foreign Tour Clearance

Telangana BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Saturday criticised the Central government for denying permission to Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy for his planned foreign tours to the United States and London to attract investments. Speaking to media persons in Husnabad, the minister termed the decision an example of the Centre's authoritarianism.

Prabhakar questioned whether a Chief Minister lacked the right to travel abroad in the interest of state development. He stated that Telangana aims to introduce its capabilities at international conferences and secure global investments, aligning with its Telangana Rising 2047 vision.

According to the minister, national development through the Prime Minister's Viksit Bharat goal requires cooperation with every state. He noted that although the Congress party governs Telangana, the state administration remains prepared to work beyond politics with the Union government on national progress.

The minister demanded that the Central government extend necessary support, approvals, and funds for key infrastructure works in the state, including metro rail expansion, outer ring roads, and internal radial ring roads. He called for adherence to the spirit of federalism rather than creating hurdles for state administrations over minor issues.

Prabhakar also urged the Telangana leadership of the Bharatiya Janata Party to take the lead in securing rightful projects and funds from the Centre. He pointed out disparities in allocations, asking why southern states receive lesser financial returns compared to their contributions while neighbouring states obtain funding.

He reiterated that Telangana is ready to hold discussions with the Centre regarding pending funds and clearances, but warned that the state government would continue to question the Centre if legitimate assistance is withheld.