Hyderabad: BC welfare minister Ponnam Prabhakar on Saturday expressed disappointment over the denial of permission for chief minister A Revanth Reddy’s proposed visit to the US and urged the Centre to rise above political considerations and extend full cooperation for Telangana’s development.“The state’s progress would contribute directly to the goal of building a Viksit Bharat, as envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Is the CM not entitled to travel abroad to attract investments and explore opportunities for the development of education and Telangana?” he asked, alleging that the denial of permission reflected the Centre’s authoritarian attitude.Ponnam questioned why obstacles were being created to Telangana’s development and challenged the BJP’s state leadership to explain its silence on issues concerning the state’s interests. “The Centre’s cooperation is essential for the success of the Telangana Rising vision,” he said, urging the Centre to extend support for major infrastructure and development projects, including the Hyderabad Metro Rail, radial roads and other initiatives crucial to the state’s growth.The minister also called upon the central govt to adopt a positive approach towards financial assistance and funds due to Telangana. “Instead of creating hurdles for the state govt over trivial issues, the Centre should uphold the spirit of federalism and cooperate with states in their development,” he said. Ponnam questioned why the BJP leaders from Telangana were not raising their voices with the Centre to secure the funds, projects and clearances due to the state.“The Congress govt has no objection to working with the Centre and discussing issues relating to funds, projects and clearances in the spirit of federalism. We are ready to rise above politics and work with the Centre for Telangana’s interests. But if the Centre refuses to cooperate, we will certainly question it and fight for the rights of Telangana,” Ponnam said.He also questioned why Telangana was not receiving adequate funds while neighbouring states were being allocated financial assistance and projects. He added that the contribution of southern states to the country’s development, as well as the resources being returned to the region, should also be examined. “Only when everyone works together, transcending political differences, can the goals of Telangana Rising and Viksit Bharat be achieved,” he said.
