Telangana Minister Challenges Centre Over Blocked US Visit

Sridhar Babu emphasized that if other chief ministers receive clearance for international travel, the exclusion of the Telangana delegation suggests a deliberate obstruction rather than a procedural hurdle. He maintained that the state had provided all necessary documentation for the tour, which was intended to focus on securing investments in sports, education, and infrastructure. Revanth Reddy himself alleged that the central government fears Telangana’s potential to outpace other states, such as Gujarat, in attracting global capital.

BJP leaders dismissed these accusations, framing the denial as a matter of national integrity. Bandaru Vijayalakshmi argued that the Ministry of External Affairs requires concrete outcomes rather than empty memorandums of understanding, citing the Chief Minister’s previous trip to Davos as an example of unproven results. She defended the Ministry’s decision, noting a lack of specific justification for the US itinerary and questioning the nature of the delegation’s proposed meetings. The standoff highlights growing friction between the state government and the Centre over the boundaries of administrative autonomy.