KTR Defends KCR's 'Father of Telangana' Title Amid Political Controversy
In a robust defense of his father and BRS president K Chandrasekhar Rao, BRS working president KT Rama Rao asserted that the title 'Father of Telangana' was not self-proclaimed but bestowed by the people of Telangana. Speaking at KCR's birthday celebrations at Telangana Bhavan on Tuesday, KTR emphasized that this honor was a direct recognition of KCR's immense sacrifices and unwavering, uncompromising fight over 14 years to achieve statehood for Telangana.
Indirect Rebuke to Chief Minister Revanth Reddy
KTR's comments served as an indirect but pointed response to recent remarks by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, who had questioned the legitimacy of calling KCR the 'father of Telangana' and referenced the 'race' or community he belongs to. Countering this, KTR delineated a stark division within the state, stating there are only two fundamental 'races' in Telangana today.
"One race comprises Telangana supporters and the other, Telangana traitors," declared KTR. He further criticized those who opposed the statehood movement, saying, "Those who brandished guns against Telangana supporters do not understand this. We all belong to a lineage of fighters such as Rani Rudrama, Komaram Bheem, Chakali Ilamma, Doddi Komaraiah and other fighters."
Asserting KCR's Unerasable Legacy and Administrative Prowess
Addressing claims by political opponents about erasing KCR's legacy, KTR dismissed such notions as impossible. He highlighted KCR's foundational role, noting that he built a strong Telangana "without money or media power" through relentless struggle. KTR also invoked former Union Minister Arun Jaitley's past assertion that those involved in people's movements often struggle as administrators.
Refuting this, KTR argued that KCR has proven himself to be "not only the best agitator but also an able administrator," showcasing a unique blend of leadership from activism to governance.
Statewide Celebrations for KCR's Birthday
Meanwhile, the BRS party marked KCR's birthday with widespread celebrations across Telangana. The festivities included:
- Cake-cutting events in various districts
- Distribution of fruits to the public
- Plantation drives promoting environmental causes
Thousands of party workers and supporters visited KCR's farmhouse in Erravelli to offer personal greetings, demonstrating sustained grassroots support for the former chief minister. The events underscored the BRS's organizational strength and the enduring popularity of KCR within certain segments of Telangana's political landscape.
This episode highlights the ongoing political tensions in Telangana, with the BRS firmly defending its founder's legacy against criticisms from the current Congress-led state government, framing the debate around loyalty to the Telangana statehood cause itself.
