By Hyderabad, May 13, 2025 – Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) launched a scathing attack on the Telangana Congress-led government over its alleged negligence in paddy procurement, which he claims has resulted in tragic deaths of farmers waiting at procurement centers. KTR called the situation a “government-made crisis” and held the ruling dispensation directly responsible for the loss of innocent lives.
Farmers Suffer Due to Delayed Procurement
With temperatures soaring above 45°C in many parts of Telangana, paddy farmers have been forced to wait for days at procurement centers under the scorching sun, hoping their harvested grain will be purchased. Reports indicate that many procurement centers are either non-functional or lack the proper infrastructure and manpower to handle the incoming paddy stocks. This has caused huge distress among farmers, many of whom have borrowed heavily to harvest their crop.
According to KTR, the delay is not due to any logistical issue but a lack of administrative will. “This is not just a failure of governance; it is criminal negligence,” he said, addressing the media at the BRS headquarters in Hyderabad.
Tragic Deaths at Procurement Centers
In a deeply distressing development, several farmers have reportedly collapsed and died while waiting for procurement officials to accept their paddy. Initial reports confirm at least five deaths due to exhaustion, heatstroke, and stress, while many others have been hospitalized.
The families of the deceased have blamed the government for the chaos and delay. Emotional scenes were witnessed at procurement centers, with farmers demanding swift action and accountability.
KTR Demands Accountability
Expressing condolences to the families of the victims, KTR demanded that the government announce an ex-gratia payment of at least ₹25 lakh to each affected family. He also called for immediate procurement of paddy at Minimum Support Price (MSP), without any preconditions or technical delays.
“Every day of delay is adding to the agony of our farmers. When we were in power, we ensured smooth procurement even during COVID times. What excuse does this government have now?” KTR asked.
Accusations of Administrative Apathy
The BRS leader did not mince words in blaming the Congress-led administration for what he called “administrative collapse” at the grassroots level. He alleged that the officials responsible for managing the centers are missing or inactive, and that the government has failed to release funds on time.
“There is no clarity, no coordination, and no compassion. This is what happens when you prioritize politics over people,” KTR said. He also accused the government of misleading the public with tall promises while failing to ensure basic support to the farming community.
Government Response and Clarification
In response to the allegations, a spokesperson from the Telangana Civil Supplies Department claimed that procurement had begun and that over 15 lakh tonnes of paddy had already been purchased. However, the department admitted that some centers were still being mobilized due to logistical issues.
Officials also urged farmers not to rush to procurement centers all at once and assured that every grain would be purchased without fail. “We are working round the clock to streamline operations. Unforeseen weather conditions and staff shortages caused initial delays,” the official said.
Farmers Union Join the Protest
Several farmers’ unions have come out in support of KTR’s criticism, stating that the government has shown little sensitivity to the plight of cultivators. Rythu Sangham leader Mallesh Yadav said, “We are not asking for charity. We just want the government to buy what we grew after months of hard work.”
Unions have warned of state-wide agitations if the procurement process is not expedited and proper facilities are not provided at centers, including shade, drinking water, and rest areas.
Political Tension Escalates
The incident has further intensified the ongoing political rivalry between the BRS and the Congress in Telangana. With local body elections around the corner, both parties are seeking to position themselves as champions of the farmers.
KTR’s strong words are seen as part of a broader strategy to reclaim the rural vote bank that had drifted away in the last Assembly elections. However, political analysts warn that mere rhetoric will not suffice — what matters to the farmer is action on the ground.
Call for Policy Reforms
In light of the crisis, KTR also urged for comprehensive reforms in the procurement process, including a decentralized model, real-time monitoring of stocks, and use of technology to streamline purchases and payments.
“The current system is outdated and incapable of handling modern-day challenges. If the government had used the foundations we laid — like Rythu Bandhu and Rythu Bima — more effectively, this tragedy could have been avoided,” KTR concluded.
Conclusion
The unfolding situation in Telangana has once again highlighted the vulnerability of Indian farmers, especially in times of bureaucratic delay and government inaction. As the political war of words continues, it remains to be seen whether concrete steps will be taken to prevent further loss of life and livelihood.
Until then, the onus lies with the state to ensure that no farmer has to die waiting to sell the fruits of their hard labor.
