Amid Adani group’s ongoing controversy, the Telangana government has taken a very important step. As Chief Minister Revanth Reddy explained, the state would not accept the 100 crore rupees donation that Adani Group had pledged for the Global Skill Centre at the Skills India University located in Telangana. This statement which was made during a press conference was made particularly in light of recent allegations of corruption that have been directed toward the Adani conglomerate.
Hard Line Against Controversy
At the time of the announcement CM Revanth Reddy made DCT’s stance quite clear and noted the need for the administration to be rid of engagements that are likely to result in disputes. He said that ‘There has been wide spread Adani controversy in t he country. Some have accused the Telangana government of getting contributions from Adani. We operate within the parameters of the constitutional law and only bring in proper investments through all necessary channels.’
The Chief Minister went on to say that Adani, Ambani and Tata may be free to do business in the state of Telangana but should not be interpreted as the government sacrificing undertaking its programs for controversies. “The Skills India University was set up with a good idea of enhancing technical skills of thousands of unemployed youngsters. It is very unfortunate that such a good initiative is being used to settle disputes,” he reiterated.
Rejecting the Donation in Clear Terms: Clearly, the funds will not be coming in
According to CM Revanth Reddy, the government has made its intentions clear to the Adani Group. A letter was addressed to the group urging them not to transfer the pledged portion (₹100 crore) of their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) fund with state accounts. He also absolutely dismissed any allegations that these funds were in any way associated with the Chief Minister or the cabinet ministers. “There has not been any such transaction where funds from the Adani Group or other parties were transferred into the accounts of the Government of Telangana,” he cleared the air.
Claiming the Right to Information
The Telangana government made a fresh statement on its political stand and principles. CM Reddy emphasized the fact that the government all the projects which are carried out by the government are done in accordance with the prescribed rules. “We issue tenders for the projects and works in a bid to comply with all the laws of the country. Every business entity registered in the country is entitled to carry on lawful business and we do precisely that in Telangana,” he explained.
Delhi Visit Clarifications
In light of political questions surrounding his travelling to Delhi frequently, CM Revanth Reddy stated the purposes of the recent visit. “This visit is purely for family issue, I am going to attend the wedding of Lok Sabha Speaker’s daughter Lok Sabha Speaker O. Birla. Let’s also talk over Tuesday on Parliament sittings with our MPs. Additionally, we will see some central ministers on the issues affecting Telangana,” he said.
As for the charge of having been to Delhi 28 times, he rebutted the allegations, arguing that, “I do not travel to Delhi for going for lobbying like others or bail sitting and enjoying. If necessary, I will go as many times as I feel it is important to get appropriate due out of Telangana.”
Sharp Criticism of Opposition
While targeting the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) government, CM Reddy accused them of corruption which he claimed amounts to the Adani Group. “The BRS government has given several parlous projects to Adani in the past and did take commissions even. It seems KTR wants to land in prison for some strange reasons probably that will help to be Prime Minister,” he exclaimed.
He further explained the internal dynamics within the KCR family by stating, ‘If went to jail was the qualification for the position of CM, Kavitha from KCR’s family would have already been there. The family rivalry in the occupation of the Chief Minister’s chair is real’”
Telangana Decides to Take A Stand
The refusal of the contribution from the Adani Group by the Government of Telangana shows that their pledge to transparency and avoiding controversy is of utmost importance. Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s insistence on this policy makes it clear how the state intends to be governed. Whilst focusing on the Skills India University among others, the commitment is to safeguard the integrity and trust of the people.
