BRS Leader Calls for Minister's Removal Over Alleged HYDRAA Mining Irregularities

Hyderabad: The BRS party escalated its criticism of the state government's handling of mining operations on Tuesday, with MLC Dr. Sravan Dasoju leveling serious accusations of illegal quarrying and administrative complicity.

Speaking at a press conference held at Telangana Bhavan, Dasoju alleged that HYDRAA—the Hyderabad Real Estate Regulatory Authority—had reversed its enforcement action against a stone crusher unit within hours of issuing a public statement. He questioned why the agency withdrew its morning announcement and suggested that external pressure may have influenced the reversal.

"Officers must answer to the Constitution, not to powerful interests," Dasoju stated, contending that misleading citizens to protect wrongdoers constitutes a grave violation of public trust.

The opposition leader demanded that criminal proceedings be initiated against multiple officials, including the district Collector and police authorities, whom he accused of turning a blind eye to mining operations valued in the hundreds of crores. He further alleged that BRS had flagged the issue weeks earlier, yet authorities delayed action for approximately 60 days before taking any steps.

Dasoju also broadened his accusations to include associates of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy, claiming connections to illegal mining activities. He pointed to unregulated quarrying near the Outer Ring Road and unauthorized billboards generating substantial revenue without proper clearance, both of which he said endangered public safety.

The MLC's demands included the immediate removal of Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy from the Cabinet, a Central Bureau of Investigation inquiry into the alleged mining irregularities, recovery of state funds, seizure of illegally acquired properties, and the arrest of officials allegedly complicit in facilitating the violations.

Dasoju indicated that the BRS would sustain its agitation until those responsible face appropriate consequences.