In a significant development for Telangana's political landscape, Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy announced on Sunday that candidates for the upcoming municipal elections will be selected through a rigorous process. The selection criteria will include comprehensive surveys, unwavering loyalty to the party, a genuine commitment to public service, personal integrity, and strict discipline among aspirants.
Congress Leadership Outlines Municipal Election Strategy
Addressing a crucial gathering of party leaders and workers from urban local bodies within the Nizamabad parliamentary constituency, Minister Reddy emphasized the party's structured approach to candidate selection. He assured that those who do not receive tickets but demonstrate exceptional dedication to the Congress campaign will be duly recognized. "Your hard work will be acknowledged and rewarded," he stated firmly, adding that such individuals would be considered for appropriate positions within the party organization or government bodies.
Recognition for Dedicated Workers
Reddy passionately called for unity and effort, declaring, "The Congress flag should fly high, celebrating victories across every municipality and municipal corporation. The party stands firmly behind every worker who contributes to our success." He has been appointed as the in-charge for all urban local bodies falling under the Nizamabad Lok Sabha constituency, underscoring his pivotal role in the election preparations.
Preparatory Meetings and Alliance Clarifications
Alongside Telangana Congress president B Mahesh Kumar Goud, Reddy conducted a detailed preparatory meeting with party leaders and cadres in Nizamabad town. During this session, Goud addressed speculation about political alliances, clarifying that no agreement has been reached with the AIMIM thus far. He urged party members and voters to remain vigilant against what he termed as propaganda and falsehoods spread by opposition parties.
Warning Against Improper Practices
Goud cautioned against any undue haste or unethical methods in seeking party tickets, emphasizing that nominations would not be granted through inducements or financial transactions. "Candidates will be selected based on objective surveys and merit," he reiterated. In a veiled reference to the BJP, Goud asserted that the Congress would not remain passive if any attempts were made to disrupt social harmony using caste or religious divisions.
Congress Confidence in Governance and Welfare
Reflecting on the party's recent electoral success, Uttam Kumar Reddy attributed the Congress victory in Telangana to the relentless efforts of party cadres and the overwhelming support of the people. He expressed confidence that the party would retain power due to its dedicated workforce and the public's trust in the government's welfare initiatives.
Grassroots Outreach and Urban Development Focus
Reddy called upon party workers to engage directly with communities, explaining the government's various welfare schemes and development programs at their doorsteps. "Inform citizens that our administration is prioritizing urban development, with increased funding allocated for urban area improvements," he instructed. This grassroots approach aims to strengthen the connection between the government and the electorate.
Highlighting Welfare Achievements
The minister detailed several key welfare measures implemented by the Congress government, taking credit for pioneering initiatives in the state. He highlighted the provision of high-quality fine rice free of cost to eligible impoverished families—a first in the country. Previously, coarse rice distributed through the public distribution system was often unused by ration cardholders and sold instead.
Comprehensive Support for the Underprivileged
Reddy elaborated that the decision to provide free fine rice to 85% of the state's population, at an estimated cost of 13,600 crore, was a landmark move by the Congress administration. Additionally, the government offers 200 units of free electricity to qualified low-income households, subsidized gas cylinders at 500 rupees, and free bus travel for women. The expansion of welfare coverage includes the issuance of lakhs of new ration cards and the addition of numerous new beneficiaries to existing cards.
This comprehensive strategy underscores the Congress party's focus on combining electoral preparedness with substantive governance achievements as municipal elections approach in Telangana.
