Formula E: Wrong to blame Congress government without calculating revenue, says deputy CM Bhatti Vikramarka

Hyderabad: While conveying his Sankranti wishes to the people of Telangana, deputy chief minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka explained the Congress government’s objective to fulfil the aspirations of all sections of society.

Stating that so far ‘the state economy was utilised for the benefit of specific individuals,’ he assured prudent utilisation of funds for the state’s future and its people.

“The people of Telangana State elected the Indiramma Rajyam Congress government with hopes and dreams of change. The most backward classes, unemployed young men, and women in the state have sought self-respect and aim to fulfil their hopes and dreams. Our government’s objective is welfare for all of them. We aim to spend every penny meaningfully for the needs and future of the people of the state,” he said while addressing the public at the Secretariat media centre on Tuesday.

Formula E race controversy

Addressing the concerns regarding the Formula E race’s cancellation in Hyderabad, he spoke about the need for a comprehensive financial analysis rather than attributing losses based solely on the event’s absence.

“Former ministers claim that the cancellation of the Formula E race in Hyderabad caused a loss to the city. It’s incorrect to argue that the race caused losses to the State government without considering the revenue it generated,” he said.

“The Formula 1 race event was conducted adhering to payment business rules. We’ll conduct a legal inquiry and take strict action. The Formula E races benefited the Nex Gen organisation through ticket sales. The profit from this company’s event amounted to Rs 110 crores. Questions about the revenue generated by the State government through this race and the impact of its cancellation will require a detailed financial analysis,” he added.

'Irregularities in payment for event'

Regarding recent events, he mentioned irregularities in an agreement involving MAUD made for an upcoming event, pointing out a payment made without proper approval. He assured a thorough investigation into these discrepancies and emphasised the importance of safeguarding the state’s interests against any illegal transfers of public property.

“On October 30 2023, an agreement was made between two parties instead of involving three parties as done before for an event scheduled in February. This change has caused worries and raised questions. An amount of Rs 55 crores was paid to the secretary of Municipal Administration and Urban Development without the approval of the concerned minister or the State Cabinet for an event in February. The company organising the event received Rs 55 crore, with the remaining balance pending. Efforts will be taken to investigate the irregularities in the agreement and fund allocation. Allegations of selling the state are baseless,” the deputy CM said.

“The state’s revenue and image need comprehensive assessment considering the race’s cancellation. Former rulers have exploited the state for their personal needs over the last ten years. Further details about the Nex Gen company and the circumstances behind the Formula E ticket agreement withdrawal will be addressed later. Protecting the state’s interests should be the priority; no property belonging to the people of the state should be transferred unlawfully,” he said.

“Legal actions will proceed regarding the irregularities in the agreement and fund disbursement. The opposition should avoid spreading false propaganda that confuses the people and degrades the state. The public administration in the state has shown excellence,” he added.

‘Congress keen on delivering more electoral promises’

The deputy CM highlighted the government’s efforts in delivering on its electoral promises, mentioning ongoing initiatives such as the Mahalakshmi scheme, the free bus travel for women, and plans to support farmers and those in need of medical assistance.

“The Praja Galam Abhaya Hastam application reception was smoothly conducted across the state without any incidents. Efforts are being made to distribute applications for five guarantees door-to-door. Assistants have been appointed to assist in filling out the applications. Promises made by the Congress government before the elections, such as BRS three-acre land, double bedroom houses, job opportunities, and other schemes, are being actively pursued,” he said.

“The Mahalakshmi scheme was initiated within two days of the Congress coming to power. Around 6.50 crore women have benefitted from free bus travel in the state. Efforts are being made to address the plight of the poor who previously had to sell their farms for medical treatment in corporate hospitals. Rajeev Arogyashri’s assistance will be increased to Rs 10 lakhs, benefiting many. Funds for Rythu Bandhu have been released to farmers who own one or two acres of land in instalments,” he said.