Telangana CM Revanth Reddy's different approach to governance — challenges and potential rewards

Revanth Reddy has focused on significant development and social welfare initiatives beyond political manoeuvring.

Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is changing the state's governance style and developing a new political strategy with far-reaching effects. Since assuming office in December 2023, as the state’s second CM, Reddy has demonstrated an impressive ability to adjust and innovate in policy and politics.

It’s showcased by his approach to political defections. Reddy's approach involves countering the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) by engineering defections from their party.

The Politics of Defection

Reddy has successfully convinced six BRS MLAs to defect to the Congress. He claims about 20 more are in touch and ready to switch allegiances soon. This wave of defections aims to consolidate his power and strengthen the Congress’s position in Telangana.

Among the prominent defectors is Rajya Sabha MP K Kesava Rao, who recently joined the Congress. Reddy's statement that the BRS will soon be reduced to KCR and his family members highlights his strategic intent to weaken his main political rival significantly.

These defections serve multiple purposes. They weaken the BRS and bring experienced leaders into the Congress fold, strengthening its base. However, this strategy has risks. The Congress must navigate the delicate balance of integrating these new members without causing internal discord, especially among long-time party loyalists. The internal dynamics of the Congress are already complex, with senior leaders vying for influence and positions within the party.

Reddy defends the defections by alleging that the BRS is working with the BJP to overthrow his government. He has even proposed offering cabinet positions to the defected MLAs. However, he has publicly stated that only those who won on a Congress ticket will be considered for such roles. This dual approach of showing public firmness and private flexibility highlights his pragmatic leadership style.

A Fresh Approach to Governance

Reddy has focused on significant development and social welfare initiatives beyond political manoeuvring. He has actively sought central support for various projects, as demonstrated by his recent meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. In these meetings, Reddy sought assistance for important initiatives such as securing coal blocks for the Singareni Collieries Company Ltd (SCCL) and revitalizing the Information Technology Investment Region to strengthen the state’s IT infrastructure.

He also requested 2,450 acres of defence land for infrastructure projects, including elevated corridors on major highways, highlighting his emphasis on urban development and connectivity.

He has backed constructing 2.5 million houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, where states complement central government in both funding and execution, and establishing an Indian Institute of Management (IIM) in Hyderabad. However, securing resources in a tense federal political landscape poses a significant challenge.

Getting over bifurcation animosity

Reddy has promoted regional co-operation, particularly with Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. This collaboration marks a departure from the strained relations of the previous decade, which were due to asset division, financial obligations, and territorial disputes.

At their recent meeting, the leaders discussed critical issues such as the division of assets listed in Schedules 9 and 10 of the Andhra Pradesh Re-organisation Act (2014) and the allocation of liabilities, including loans raised from international agencies. They also addressed the contentious issue of allocating five of the seven villages initially assigned to Andhra Pradesh, considering their likely inundation due to the Polavaram Project.

Another significant point of contention was Andhra Pradesh's demand for Rs 7,000 crore in dues for power used by Telangana during the state's early years. The Telangana delegation rejected this claim, asserting that there were no outstanding dues, and turned down a request for a few buildings in Hyderabad.

This renewed conversation signals a new era of regional partnership that promises mutual growth and stability. However, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. Overcoming entrenched political rivalries and ensuring both states keep their promises will require sustained effort and goodwill. The success of this initiative rests on both administrations' ability to navigate these complexities and uphold their commitment to cooperative governance.

Reforming Law Enforcement and Social Welfare

By reducing his convoy and establishing a police school, Reddy exemplifies empathetic leadership that values the well-being of law enforcement personnel and their families.

His firm stance against drug abuse, combined with initiatives to provide free education to the children of police personnel aim to showcase an approach that combines security with social welfare. Personal anecdotes, such as being raised by his elder brother, a constable, add a relatable, human element to his leadership style.

Enhancing Security and Infrastructure

Recognising the importance of security, Reddy has requested funds to modernize the Telangana Anti-Narcotics Bureau and the Telangana Cyber Security Bureau. His requests for additional IPS posts and establishing security force camps in vulnerable districts reflect a comprehensive strategy for maintaining law and order.

In addition, Reddy wants to establish CRPF Joint Task Force camps in strategic locations. However, balancing the allocation of resources between security and development remains a delicate task, and any missteps could lead to criticism from both political opponents and the public.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the progress made, Reddy is encountering significant challenges. Keeping the Congress united amid internal discord and managing the aspirations of various leaders is crucial. The weakened BRS could still pose a threat if Reddy’s strategy of poaching members fails. Furthermore, carefully navigating the allocation of resources between security and development is necessary to avoid criticism from political opponents and the public.

A Vision for the Future

A mix of innovative governance and strategic political manoeuvring characterises Revanth Reddy's tenure as CM. He is developing a new political framework for Telangana and its success will rely on his ability to balance both development and political unity.