BJP state president N. Ramchander Rao asked why the issue of the river dispute was brought before the Supreme Court and later withdrawn. | Photo credit: SIDDHANT THAKUR
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused both the Congress and the BRS of “deliberately” prolonging the water dispute between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh for political gains. “Neither the Congress nor the BRS wants the water issue to be resolved. The Congress has created a dispute and the BRS continues to make unnecessary political statements over it,” alleged Telangana State President N. Ramchander Rao on Tuesday.
In an informal interaction with the media at the state office, he asked why the issue of the river dispute was taken up in the Supreme Court and later withdrawn, claiming that both parties were trying to revive Telangana sentiment through the water issue.
“We have always supported Telangana’s rightful share of water. Both states should share water resources amicably. This is nothing new. Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee successfully resolved the Cauvery dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. BJP alone can offer a lasting solution,” he said.
Mr. Rao demanded an all-party meeting, followed by public consultation, before any decision was taken to reorganize the district. He also criticized the government for focusing on generating revenue through fines and taxes while ignoring road safety awareness.
“Instead of imposing taxes on bicycles, the government should prioritize road safety and youth counseling,” he advised, also condemning the practice of filming individuals caught in drink-driving cases. “The police should advise the perpetrators, not violate their privacy,” he confirmed.
The former MLC clarified that the municipal elections will be held independently. “We have not negotiated with Jana Sen’s Party. If they support us, we will accept it. But we will not compromise on principles,” he said. He also mocked the BRS for not fielding a candidate in the recent MLC elections, questioning the party’s relevance.
The BJP leader said his party has never sought votes in the name of religion unlike the Congress which “openly” asked for Muslim votes during the recent Jubilee Hills election campaign. Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy himself said that Muslims mean Congress, so if we call ourselves a Hindu party, we are proud of it,” he added.
Published – 13 Jan 2026 21:29 IST
