Interview: People voted for Congress to defeat the BRS, Malkajgiri seat will be a gift to Modi: Etala Rajender

Hyderabad: BJP senior leader, a former Telangana minister and Malkajgiri Lok Sabha contestant Eatala Rajender stated that party functionaries are working with a strong resolve to present Malkajgiri victory as a gift to Modi.

In an exclusive interview with Newsmeter Eatala explained the reasons for switching from state to national politics after 20 years. He pointed out that Malkajgiri voters have made up their minds to vote for the BJP as they strongly believe only the BJP will transform it into a model constituency. Eatala, who for the first time tasted defeat in his political career in the recent Telangana assembly elections, said there was a strong sentiment among people to stand by the selfless and pro-poor `Rajender anna’ and make sure he wins this time.

Giving his comments on the political situation in the State, the BJP senior leader felt that the saffron party would be a reckoning force and would form the government after the 2028 assembly elections. Excerpts:

NewsMeter: You played a key role in state politics from 2004 to 2024. Why have you decided to enter national politics? Did you get any call from the party high command in this regard?

Eatala: People and BJP strongly desired that the party should come to power. However, due to miscalculations, mismatches, or some reasons, it was not realized. As every seat is important in parliament elections, the central leadership has zeroed in on various key leaders and those having winning chances as party candidates. Thus, I am being fielded from the Malkajgiri segment. We are aiming to score big this time.

NewsMeter: You have won 7 straight elections and by-elections in the last 20 years. However, in the recent Telangana assembly elections, you lost for the first time. It was unexpected

Eatala: I contested two assembly seats. There were many reasons for my defeats. I feel two to three minutes is not enough to analyze the reasons.

NewsMeter: Malkajgiri is the largest constituency in the country. The number of voters here is more than 35 lakhs. Given such a short time for elections, how are you reaching out to the voters? How has been the response thus far?

Eatala: There is not even a single family or individual in Telangana who doesn’t know me. During the time of agitation, I traveled extensively from LB Nagar and Kukatpally. Settlers are also in sizable numbers here. Also, during my stint as finance minister, I introduced the Sanna Biyyam (Super Fine Rice) scheme in hostels and govt. schools, which got appreciation from all especially the poor. During Corona pandemic, when everyone was locked indoors and in front of TVs, the work I did, as the Health minister, connected me with every family in the state

I have met many people in the last two months of campaigning in Malkajgiri. We will work for 18 hours a day on the field for the next 20 days and reach out to as many as possible

NewsMeter: Malkajgiri is considered as mini-India. Do you have any special plans for its development?

Eatala: The flyover issue has been pending for a long time in Malkajgiri. It should be addressed. The decision on Rail connectivity to Medchal lies with the Centre. Also in the newly expanded city…roads, drainage, and drinking water issues have to be addressed on a priority basis.

There is a large number of educated youth looking for employment opportunities. Two things need to be done for this. Skill development centers have to be set up. There is a need for establishing IT corridors/Industries here to provide more jobs

There is a strong belief that speedy development and infrastructure creation are only possible with the BJP in Malkajgiri.

NewsMeter: Your Congress and BRS opponents have been highlighting the non-local issue in electioneering. Can you explain why you chose to enter the fray from the Malkajgiri constituency? Plus Malkajgiri transformed CM Revanth Reddy’s career. Do you think it will give a big turn to your political career as well?

Eatala: I haven’t thought along those lines but one thing is true. There is a strong wave in favor of the BJP. This is due to a good opinion about Modi. Abrogation of Article 370, abolition of Triple Talaq, construction of Ram Temple, Chandrayaan success, etc. have increased BJP’s winning chances.

People believe that Malkajgiri will become a “model constituency” only if BJP secures a win here.

There is a sentiment among people that we should stand for Rajenderanna, and make sure selfless and pro-poor Rajendranna wins to safeguard democracy. Everything is pointing towards Modi’s victory again. People are looking to ensure the BJP’s win in Malkajgiri as a gift to Modi.

NewsMeter: The talk in political circles is that Eatala Rajender will get a big elevation if he wins in Malkajgiri and simultaneously BJP also comes back to power again in New Delhi. How has been the support from BJP leaders and cadre for you in Malkajgiri?

Eatala: Leaders who have been with the party for the last 30 to 40 years have realized how important is BJP’s win in Malkajgiri is for the party and their future. They are working hard and unitedly to ensure party victory

NewsMeter: Any type of election in the peak summer season is always a big challenge for the candidates. As a former health minister, what precautions you are taking health-wise?

Eatala: Extreme heat conditions, taking part in agitations, hitting the streets, or moving in public are not new and do not act as a deterrent for politicians like us. We have the strength to continue electioneering even in hot summer. This time it’s no different.

NewsMeter: BRS is facing a tough time after the assembly election defeat. How do you foresee the political scenario come the 2028 election time? What is your prediction?

Eatala: Everyone has seen 10 years of BRS rule. Since assuming power, Revanth Reddy miserably failed to implement manifesto promises made during elections. Everyone remembers Congress’ record and history. Only to defeat KCR, people voted for Congress this time

However, after the next assembly elections (in 2028), it is the BJP that is going to form the government in Telangana.