Hyderabad: Minister Ponnam Prabhakar has assured the public that the government is taking all necessary measures to prevent any untoward incidents in gurukulas (traditional schools) and hostels. He further clarified that mess charges have been significantly raised compared to previous levels, in response to rising operational costs.
In a recent exclusive interview with RTV, the Minister addressed several critical topics, including government policies, inter-ministerial relations, and upcoming plans.
బండి సంజయ్ నా బ్రదర్..మేము ఇద్దరం చాలా క్లోజ్ ఫ్రెండ్స్.. రోజూ ఫోన్లో మాట్లాడుకుంటాం. – మంత్రి పొన్నం ప్రభాకర్ @Ponnam_INC @bandisanjay_bjp #TelanganaCongress #BJP #RTV pic.twitter.com/1CbB4yHdVM
— RTV (@RTVnewsnetwork) January 5, 2025
BC Ministers and Cabinet Dynamics
Minister Prabhakar categorically dismissed any notions of discrimination against BC (Backward Classes) ministers within the Cabinet. He emphasized that there is no bias and that the government is committed to ensuring fair representation for all communities. Responding to speculation about ministers using helicopters due to work pressures, the Minister confirmed that while some ministers may have used helicopters, he himself had not felt the need for such a facility. He also clarified that reports claiming helicopters were being denied to BC ministers were false.
Commitment to 42% BC Reservation
The Minister reiterated the government’s firm stance on implementing 42% reservation for BCs, stating that this remains a key focus of their policy agenda.
Public Transportation and Fare Hikes
On the issue of bus fare hikes, Minister Prabhakar assured that Telangana would not follow Karnataka’s example of increasing bus fares. He emphasized that the state government was committed to keeping public transportation affordable for the people.
Relations with Bandi Sanjay
Regarding his relationship with BJP leader Bandi Sanjay, Prabhakar denied any differences between them. He revealed that he had recently requested Bandi Sanjay to support the establishment of a Navodaya Vidyalaya in Sanjay’s native village, Vangara, to which Sanjay had agreed.
Confidence in Congress’ Performance in Local Elections
The Minister expressed confidence that the Congress party would secure strong results in upcoming local body elections, further asserting the party’s momentum in the state.
Musi River Front Development
On the Musi River Front project, Prabhakar assured that the government would carefully plan the project to ensure it would not cause harm to the local population. He emphasized that the government’s approach would prioritize public welfare while promoting urban development. Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s full interview is available for viewing on RTV.