KTR criticizes Telangana for funding beauty contests

K T Rama Rao, a leader of the BRS party, criticized the Telangana government for spending Rs 55 crore on beauty contests. He pointed out that this money could be better used to help farmers facing severe challenges, such as suicides and water scarcity. During an assembly session, KTR expressed his concerns about the government's priorities. He questioned the value of hosting events like Miss World while farmers struggle with basic needs like drinking and irrigation water. KTR stated that these beauty contests lack relevance and necessity at a time when the state is in distress. He also criticized the government's cancellation of a Rs 46 crore Formula-E event, which aimed to attract electronics investments. KTR said this cancellation led to significant financial losses for the state. He noted that Formula-E had previously drawn interest from major companies, including Tesla, for investment opportunities in various districts. Additionally, KTR raised issues about access to a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. He questioned why it was not accessible to visitors, suggesting it should be open especially on important occasions, like Ambedkar's birthday. He pointed out inconsistencies in the government's tourism policies, highlighting a 99-year lease plan for public assets that contrasts with previous arrangements.