Opposition party Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has requested Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla to remove revenue minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy due to accusations of engaging in illegal mining and land grabbing. A delegation from BRS, led by party working president K. T. Rama Rao, met the Governor to formally lodge a complaint and demand an investigation into the alleged misconduct by the minister. The delegation provided evidence of significant irregularities, including unauthorized mining operations and encroachments on land associated with the minister.
BRS leaders claimed that a company connected to the minister, Raghava Constructions, has been conducting illegal mining activities, disregarding regulations such as operating in restricted areas like reservoir catchment zones. They highlighted that these activities lacked essential clearances, leading to substantial losses of public resources amounting to hundreds of crores. Additionally, the delegation criticized the ruling Congress government for suspending and expelling BRS members instead of addressing the allegations when raised in the Assembly.
Following the meeting with the Governor, Rama Rao emphasized the necessity for a legislative committee comprising MLAs and MLCs to investigate the matter thoroughly or, alternatively, for an independent judicial inquiry to be initiated. Expressing doubts about state agencies’ impartiality, he stressed the urgency of removing Srinivas Reddy from office to prevent any potential influence on the investigation. BRS leaders urged the Governor to intervene and ensure a fair investigation, either through a sitting High Court judge or central agencies.
