'Rahul Gandhi has no personal agenda, nation is his top priority': CM Revanth Reddy
Telangana CM Revanth Reddy recalls his political journey and praises Rahul Gandhi's selfless dedication to the nation during a Delhi conclave.
Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has lauded Rahul Gandhi, stating that the Congress leader's primary focus remains the welfare of the nation rather than any personal interests. Speaking at the "India's Next Chapter" conclave in Delhi, organized by the Assam daily Pratidin, the Chief Minister shared personal reflections on his political evolution and the current state of Indian politics.
A Journey Through Political Transitions
Reflecting on his long political career, Revanth Reddy detailed his rise from a grassroots worker to a state leader. His journey began in 2006 as a ZPTC member, followed by an election as an MLC in 2007 as an independent candidate. Interestingly, he noted that in both instances, he secured victories by defeating Congress candidates.
The Chief Minister recounted his time with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), where he served as an MLA in both 2009 and 2014. He explained that his decision to join the Congress party in 2017 was guided by the advice of the people. He also touched upon the shifting political landscape in the region, noting how the TDP lost its influence in Telangana following the state's bifurcation due to its leadership being centered in Andhra Pradesh.
The Struggle Against BRS and Political Resilience
Reddy spoke candidly about the intense political battles he faced in Telangana, particularly the rivalry with KCR's BRS government after the state's bifurcation. He described a period of significant personal and political hardship, claiming that the then-government sent him to jail multiple times. "I visited jail more often than the Assembly," he remarked, highlighting the toughness of the political contest in the state.
Insights into Student Politics and Party Dynamics
The Chief Minister also provided an analysis of the student political landscape in Telangana. He observed that while the ABVP maintains a presence in university student unions, the Congress party continues to hold significant sway in mainstream politics. He noted a unique dynamic in the region where students active in right-wing unions often belong to families aligned with the Congress in their respective villages.
Discussing his relationship with senior Congress leadership, Reddy mentioned having strong well-wishers within the party, including Digvijaya Singh and Jairam Ramesh. He recalled the pivotal moment he met Rahul Gandhi, noting that a brief 15-minute conversation was enough to solidify his decision to work alongside the leader.
"Rahul Gandhi has no personal agenda, and his top agenda is the nation," Reddy emphasized, reiterating that his own political motivations, whether during his time in student unions or other parties, have always been driven by a desire to serve the state and the country.