Hyderabad: Striking a personal yet politically charged note, Telangana Rakshana Sena (TRS) chief Kalvakuntla Kavitha on Saturday clarified that her recent remarks against BRS president K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) were purely political and not personal, underscoring that there is "no rift as a daughter, only differences as a political leader."
At the same time, she delivered a sharp message on governance, calling for strong public accountability on welfare promises, particularly in education and healthcare.
'No rift with my father'
Addressing a "Meet the Press" programme at Basheerbagh Press Club, Kavitha said her criticism was aimed only at KCR in his role as a political leader and BRS president.
"I have no issues with him as my father. My disagreement is with certain political decisions and governance priorities," she said, drawing a clear distinction between personal relationships and public life.
Ideological differences and missed opportunities
Kavitha said her critique stems from ideological differences, particularly in governance after Telangana's formation. She argued that several opportunities in irrigation, employment, and resource utilisation were not fully realised.
She pointed out that better use of Krishna and Godavari river waters could have improved farmers' incomes, while repeated lapses in recruitment examinations caused distress among unemployed youth.
Call for accountability on welfare
Emphasising people-centric governance, Kavitha said governments must be held accountable if they fail to provide essential services like free education and healthcare.
She noted that a large share of household income is currently spent on these sectors and maintained that with proper financial planning, universal access is achievable.
Referring to her party's "Panchajanayam" agenda, she said the promises were made after consultations with experts and can be implemented with political will.
Sharper attack on Congress government
Kavitha criticised the Congress government, accusing it of failing to address public concerns effectively. She said her party would work towards unseating the government within 1,000 days and introduce a governance model rooted in empathy and accountability.
According to her, a "mother-like" approach to governance is essential to address people's problems, which she claimed is currently lacking.
A new political alternative
Positioning Telangana Rakshana Sena as an alternative political force, Kavitha said the party was formed to bridge gaps left by existing parties. She reiterated her vision of "Sarvodaya Telangana," focusing on inclusive development and social justice.
She added that the party's name and structure were part of a deliberate political strategy.
Response to political criticism
Dismissing criticism from Congress, BJP, and BRS leaders, Kavitha urged them to focus on Telangana's development rather than targeting her. She questioned the lack of adequate central support for key projects and said such issues deserved greater attention.
"Democracy gains strength from participation. People ultimately judge leadership by sincerity and performance," she said.
Women-centric approach
Kavitha said her party would prioritise women's participation in politics and ensure 33% reservation in seats, irrespective of pending legislation. She expressed confidence that women-led leadership can deliver more effective governance.
Push for stronger federal structure
In a significant policy proposal, Kavitha called for strengthening India's federal structure by enhancing the powers of the Rajya Sabha on the lines of the U.S. Senate.
She said the Upper House should have greater authority over legislation affecting states, including finance bills, and be able to stall laws if states do not agree.
Delimitation and equal representation
Weighing in on the delimitation debate, Kavitha said seat allocation in the Lok Sabha could be based on a fixed population benchmark, even if it leads to some states losing representation.
However, she suggested that such imbalances should be addressed by granting all states an equal number of seats in the Rajya Sabha.
"Every state should have fixed representation and voting rights in the Rajya Sabha to maintain balance and protect the federal spirit," she said, adding that she would submit detailed proposals to the Prime Minister and any future Delimitation Commission.
Future plans and public connect
Kavitha said her party would undertake issue-based padyatras and expand outreach across communities, including youth, minorities, and marginalised groups. She also invited those willing to join mainstream politics to be part of her movement.
Expressing confidence in public support, she said Telangana has a history of embracing new political alternatives.
"The people will judge us by our actions. Our commitment is to deliver and remain accountable," she said.