HYDERABAD: Rahul Gandhi struck a chord with the people of Telangana, as Indian National Congress chief went hyper local in his speeches at Bhainsa, Kamareddy and Charminar.
Starting with a reverent mention of legendary tribal leader Kumaram Bheem, Rahul Gandhi spoke of introducing Forest Rights Protection Act speaking at Bhainsa, a region inhabited by large number of tribals. “UPA government brought Adivasi Bill for Adivasis to protect and ensure that they get the full benefit from their Jal..Jungle..Zameen,” said Rahul trying to strike a chord with local people.
Congress president bettered his local outreach speaking later at Kamareddy saying, “Telangana movement was for neellu (water)..nidhulu (funds)..niyamakalu (jobs). People of all sections fought for Telangana. Congress played a key role in Telangana formation. While farmers, labourer, youth, Adivasis, Dalits, Minorities and other sections saw a dream where people of all sections share the benefits of a new State, but after five years people have realised that KCR has done corruption and betrayed. Congress will fulfil the dream of Telangana people. KCR does not have money to help farmers, to create jobs, to provide education and health but has money to construct his home with Rs 300 crore. KCR does not have money to reopen Nizam Sugar Factory. He has failed even in bringing Turmeric Board to Nizamabad.” Rahul’s mentioning of local issues elicited immediate response from the crowd.
Speaking further at Kamareddy, Rahul alleged that KCR has done corruption in open and pushed the State into a debt trap, saying that every family has a debt of Rs 2,60,000 on its head in Telangana. Finally speaking at Charminar in the Old City area of Hyderabad, a busy tourist and shopping location, Rahul explained how demonetisation has left many poor, street vendors, small shop owners penniless.