BRS Accuses Congress of Targeting the Poor in Khammam
K.T. Rama Rao, working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), has sharply criticized the Congress government following the demolition of houses belonging to residents in Velugumatla, Khammam. He alleged that the demolitions, which occurred after families had legally obtained pattas for their land over the past decade, were carried out to benefit "benamis of a few ministers."
KTR demanded an announcement of ₹3 lakh for each affected family and the reconstruction of their houses on the same land from the current government. He further questioned the rationale behind the government's decision to provide only 75 square yards to 310 of the over 1,000 displaced families, while taking away their original 100 square yards. Rama Rao decried the government's approach as "destructive thinking and policies" and condemned the characterization of the displaced families as "paid artistes."
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Promises of Housing Aid
The controversy comes amidst ongoing discussions and promises related to housing schemes. In a separate development, the Telangana government had previously announced plans to construct 4 lakh houses for poor families who own land but lack the means to build. This initiative, estimated to cost ₹12,000 crores, was part of broader decisions on welfare programs.
Rama Rao's statements also touch upon previous government initiatives, referencing the modernization of government schools under schemes like 'Mana Ooru-Mana Badi' and 'Mana Basti-Mana Badi'. He also alluded to the phased distribution of double-bedroom houses for eligible individuals, to commence after the conclusion of legislative assembly sessions. Furthermore, the construction of four hospitals, each with a thousand-bed capacity, on the outskirts of Hyderabad was mentioned, aimed at providing advanced medical care to the poor.
Background on Housing Initiatives
Previous government communications have highlighted a focus on housing for the underprivileged. Schemes such as 'Gruha Lakshmi' and initiatives like 'Dalit Bandhu' have been part of the state's agenda. The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban 2.0 Scheme also represents a federal effort to address urban housing needs. These various programs underscore a persistent, albeit sometimes contested, commitment to addressing housing deficits and providing support for homeownership.
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