Unrealistic Budget, Rising Deficit: Harish Rao cites CAG Findings

Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Senior BRS leader and former Minister Harish Rao launched a sharp attack on the Congress government, citing the latest Comptroller and Auditor General findings as evidence of serious financial mismanagement in Telangana.

Addressing the media, Harish Rao said the report exposes a lack of fiscal discipline during the current administration, alleging that budget estimates were unrealistic and far removed from actual spending. He stated that while the government projected large allocations for welfare and irrigation, the actual expenditure fell significantly short, reflecting inefficiency and poor planning.

The BRS leader highlighted that the state has slipped into a substantial revenue deficit, in contrast to the surplus position inherited earlier. He pointed out that the revenue deficit has surged sharply, raising concerns about the sustainability of the state’s finances. He further alleged that borrowings have increased considerably without corresponding asset creation, indicating misuse of funds.

Harish Rao also criticised the government for failing to mobilise its own revenues effectively, noting a decline in key sectors such as stamps and registration, vehicle taxes, and overall state revenues despite an increase in central tax devolution.

On social welfare, he claimed that allocations for Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and Backward Classes were not fully utilised, questioning the government’s commitment to weaker sections.

Calling the report a “wake up call,” he urged the government to abandon what he termed as diversionary politics and focus on restoring financial discipline, ensuring transparency, and prioritising public welfare.