Hyderabad Metro loan dispute escalates as A Revanth Reddy and G Kishan Reddy trade claims

A public dispute has intensified between Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy over the IRFC Rs 13,600 crore refinancing loan for the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. Kishan Reddy rejected claims of delays, said the Centre supports Telangana projects, and cited an ADB loan NOC for the Musi rejuvenation plan.

The dispute between Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and Union Coal Minister G Kishan Reddy sharpened on Tuesday. The row centred on a Rs 13,600 crore refinancing loan for the Hyderabad Metro Rail project. The loan is linked to Central PSU IRFC. Kishan Reddy rejected claims of blocking the process.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi, Kishan Reddy said the criticism showed the CM’s "political bankruptcy\". Kishan Reddy said the Centre is supporting Telangana’s development work. Kishan Reddy added that the matter should be handled through talks. Kishan Reddy said public allegations would not solve the loan issue.

Hyderabad Metro Rail loan row and Centre support claims

Kishan Reddy pointed to a Centre-issued NOC for a separate funding plan. The NOC related to a Rs 4,100 crore Asian Development Bank loan. The loan is for the state government’s Musi rejuvenation project in Hyderabad. Kishan Reddy said this showed the Centre’s cooperation with Telangana projects.

Kishan Reddy also said Revanth Reddy need not certify commitment to development. Kishan Reddy said, \"I never spoke about IRFC. The Centre has extended cooperation to the loan process. I spoke to Khattar Union Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal and told him that the CM is making false allegations,\"

Hyderabad Metro Rail loan talks with Manohar Lal and dialogue offer

Kishan Reddy quoted Khattar as saying the CM was rejecting some Central suggestions. Kishan Reddy said differences should be settled by dialogue. Kishan Reddy said readiness to join the CM for talks. Kishan Reddy said this could happen whenever Revanth Reddy meets Khattar and others.

Hyderabad Metro Rail loan letter seeking Ashwini Vaishnaw meeting

Later on Tuesday night, Revanth Reddy wrote to Kishan Reddy. Revanth Reddy urged an early meeting with Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. Revanth Reddy said attendance with the relevant agreement. Revanth Reddy also said supporting documents would be brought to the meeting.

On Monday, Revanth Reddy accused Kishan Reddy of blocking the IRFC refinancing loan. Revanth Reddy also alleged Kishan Reddy acted under influence from BRS working president K T Rama Rao. Revanth Reddy alleged a BJP and BRS conspiracy. Revanth Reddy said the aim was to derail the Metro project.

With inputs from PTI