BRS MLA Vivekanand Slams CM Revanth Reddy Over GHMC Trifurcation Decision
In a strong critique of the state government's recent move, BRS whip and Qutbullapur MLA KP Vivekanand has voiced sharp objections to the trifurcation of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) extended areas. Addressing a press conference in Hyderabad on Wednesday, Vivekanand accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of making unilateral decisions on critical issues without consulting key stakeholders in the city.
Allegations of Unilateral Decision-Making
Vivekanand asserted that the chief minister has been taking important decisions, such as the division of GHMC and the earlier merger of 27 surrounding municipalities into the corporation, without involving Hyderabad's stakeholders. He emphasized that even Congress MLAs were reportedly unaware of their own government's decisions, highlighting a lack of transparency and internal communication within the ruling party.
The BRS whip alleged that CM Revanth Reddy does not support the decentralization of powers through local bodies and has shown reluctance to conduct GHMC elections promptly. In contrast, Vivekanand pointed out that during the BRS tenure, GHMC elections were held on schedule, prior to the completion of the council's term, ensuring democratic processes were upheld.
Criticism of GHMC Expansion and Trifurcation
Vivekanand criticized the government for what he described as a series of mistakes in handling GHMC affairs. He stated that extending the GHMC area up to the Outer Ring Road was an initial error, followed by another misstep in dividing the expanded corporation into three separate entities. According to the MLA, this trifurcation was not carried out scientifically, resulting in rural areas being incorporated into the larger corporation without proper planning or rationale.
"The CM talks about a non-existent Future City and shows no concern for the existing city," Vivekanand remarked, accusing Reddy of exploiting Hyderabad for personal gains without delivering tangible benefits during the two years of Congress governance. He further claimed that these decisions were made secretly, bypassing stakeholder involvement and undermining democratic principles.
Questioning Government's Approach
Vivekanand raised pointed questions about the government's decision-making process. He noted that whenever issues arise, the CM has promised to discuss them in the assembly before taking action. "Now, what stopped the government from discussing such an important decision without debating it in the assembly?" he asked, suggesting a contradiction in the administration's stated commitment to transparency and its actual practices.
The BRS MLA announced that his party would launch a public movement against the Congress government's decision on GHMC trifurcation, signaling a potential escalation in political opposition to the move. This stance reflects broader concerns about governance and local body autonomy in Hyderabad's political landscape.
