Hyderabad: Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao on Wednesday blamed the Congress government’s “freebie politics” for the ongoing RTC crisis, alleging that it had crippled public transport and caused widespread hardship to commuters.
He said nearly 15,000 buses remained off the roads, disrupting daily life for lakhs of people. As a result, commuters faced severe inconvenience across the state.
Rao stated that the government failed to clear pending dues and address workers’ demands. Consequently, employees were forced to go on strike. He added that the worst affected were common citizens who depend on RTC services for their livelihood.
The BJP extended full support to RTC employees. Rao described their agitation as “just and long overdue.”
RTC crisis freebie politics triggers attack on government
Rao criticised Transport Minister Ponnam Prabhakar for inaction. He also accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of failing to honour key promises.
“This crisis is a direct consequence of the Congress government’s misplaced priorities,” he said. “Instead of ensuring sound financial management, the government has indulged in reckless freebie politics.”
He added that such policies weakened the state transport corporation financially. Therefore, the government could not meet employee demands or clear dues, which led to the strike.
RTC crisis freebie politics linked to unfulfilled promises
Rao said the Congress had promised during the 2023 elections to merge RTC with the government. It also assured dignity and job security for workers. However, he stated that none of these promises had been fulfilled.
He pointed out that commitments such as forming a Pay Revision Commission and implementing its benefits remained pending. In addition, vacancies had not been filled, and fleet expansion had not taken place.
He further alleged that the government had not released hundreds of crores in dues linked to the free bus scheme. This, he said, pushed RTC towards financial distress.
Rao also accused the government of ignoring rental bus drivers and outsourcing staff. Moreover, he said authorities were trying to break the strike through committees and delays instead of resolving issues.
RTC crisis freebie politics sparks protest warning
Rao demanded the immediate release of ₹400 crore in monthly dues under the free bus scheme. He also called for urgent talks with employee unions.
Rao warned that the BJP would intensify protests if the government failed to act. He added that any attempt to intimidate workers would not be tolerated.