BRS alleges nepotism in Hyderabad Fourth City land allotment to CM kin firm

Opposition raises stink over land deal

The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) has accused the Telangana government of nepotism in the allotment of land in the upcoming Fourth City project, claiming that a plot was handed over to a company connected to Chief Minister's relatives. The opposition party has demanded a full-fledged inquiry into what it calls a blatant favouritism.

In a press conference in Hyderabad, BRS leaders alleged that the land allotment bypassed due process and violated transparency norms. They claimed that the beneficiary firm had no prior experience in large-scale urban development, raising questions about the selection criteria.

The Fourth City project, envisioned as a major satellite township near Hyderabad, has been touted by the government as a flagship initiative to decongest the city and attract investment. The opposition's charge now threatens to cast a shadow over the project's credibility.

Demand for white paper

BRS leaders have urged the government to release all documents related to the allotment, including the application, evaluation, and approval notes. They have also sought a white paper on the entire land allocation process for Fourth City to ensure public accountability.

"This is a clear case of quid pro quo," a senior BRS functionary said, without naming the CM's kin. "The government must immediately cancel the allotment and initiate a probe by a sitting High Court judge." The party has announced plans to approach the Lokayukta if no action is taken within a week.

Government yet to respond

As of now, no official response has come from the Chief Minister's Office or the municipal administration department regarding the allegations. Officials in the Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority, which oversees the Fourth City project, have remained tight-lipped.

Political observers note that the issue could gain traction in the Assembly session scheduled later this month. The ruling party, meanwhile, is expected to counter the charges by pointing to the project's overall benefits and calling the allegations politically motivated.

What to watch next

With the opposition stepping up pressure, all eyes are now on the government's next move — whether it will order a preliminary enquiry or dismiss the claims as baseless. The coming weeks will reveal if this land allotment becomes a full-blown political storm or fizzles out.