BJP Challenges GHMC Expansion: Concerns Over Centralization and Real Estate Interests

Hyderabad: The Telangana BJP has vehemently opposed the Congress government's decision to expand the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) by merging it with 27 urban local bodies (ULBs) within the Outer Ring Road (ORR). The party argues that this move is unscientific and detrimental to public interest, emphasizing the need for decentralization in governance.

BJP president N. Ramchander Rao, speaking to the media, highlighted that the formation of the GHMC by merging rural areas has already led to increased tax burdens and a decline in development in newly-merged zones. The anticipated inclusion of over 20 million people under GHMC jurisdiction will further strain already lacking infrastructure and municipal facilities, he warned.

Ramchander Rao also questioned the quality of public services in the ULBs, doubting whether the merger would bring any improvements. He was joined by chief spokesperson N.V. Subash, former mayor Banda Karthika Reddy, party GHMC floor leader Shankar Yadav, and other senior leaders.

The BJP has accused the Congress government of prioritizing the interests of the 'real estate mafia' over the welfare of citizens. They claim that the Hyderabad Industrial Lands Transformation Policy (HLITP) will allocate large tracts of land for real estate development, which they see as a significant concern. The party criticized the government for bypassing public opinion and all-party meetings before making this decision.

Ramchander Rao demanded that the Congress government withdraw this decision to prevent Hyderabad from becoming a 'red estate' hub, warning that the move will increase taxes and reduce governance efficiency. He pointed out that globally, metropolitan areas do not merge surrounding municipalities but maintain them as independent administrative units for better management and public welfare.

Earlier, the BJP held a meeting with senior leaders from GHMC and surrounding areas, including MLCs Anji Reddy, Malka Komaraiah, deputy floor leaders in GHMC Radha Dheeraj Reddy, Narasimha Reddy, and others. The meeting discussed the repercussions of merging neighboring municipalities and corporations into GHMC limits. The party decided to put up extensive resistance to the government's plans to create a larger municipal body, in the interests of the public.

The BJP's stance reflects a broader concern about the potential negative impacts of such a merger on the city's infrastructure, governance, and economic development. They argue that maintaining independent administrative units is crucial for effective and responsive governance.