Hyderabad: The Telangana BJP on Thursday strongly criticised the A. Revanth Reddy-led Congress government over its controversial “Eid Ka Tohfa” outreach, terming it a clear case of “appeasement politics” at the cost of taxpayers and neglected welfare commitments.
State BJP Chief Spokesperson and Media In-charge N.V. Subash questioned the intent and funding behind the initiative, asking whether public money is being used for religion-specific benefits. “If this is funded by taxpayer money, the government must explain why welfare is being selectively distributed on religious lines,” he said, adding that governance must remain neutral and inclusive, not politically motivated.
Drawing attention to the timing, Subash pointed out that the announcement coincides with Hindu New Year celebrations observed across the country as Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Navratri, Cheti Chand, Navreh, and Sajibu Cheiraoba. “Will similar ‘tohfas’ be extended to Hindus, or has secularism become a one-way street under Congress rule?” he asked.
He said the move blatantly exposes the Congress government’s failure to deliver on its core promises. “Farmers are still waiting for loan waivers, youth for employment opportunities, women for financial support, and ASHA workers for fair wages. Instead of fulfilling these commitments, the government is indulging in symbolic appeasement,” he pointed out.
The party, he said, also recalled past remarks by Congress leaders that, according to the BJP, indicated a bias in resource allocation. “Statements suggesting that certain communities have the ‘first right’ over resources now appear to be reflected in governance decisions. This raises serious concerns about fairness and constitutional principles,” the BJP spokesperson noted.
Expressing concern over the state’s financial condition, the party questioned how the government could justify such expenditure. “On one hand, the state cites financial stress and mounting debt. On the other, it finds resources for politically convenient announcements. This contradiction must be explained to the people of Telangana,” he said.
Taking a swipe at the Chief Minister, Subash accused him of prioritising optics over governance. “This is not welfare—it is calculated political messaging aimed at consolidating a vote bank while ignoring a large section of people struggling with unmet promises,” he added.
He further said the BJP demands full transparency on the scheme, including its funding source, beneficiary criteria, and legal basis. “The people of Telangana deserve accountability. Governance cannot be reduced to festival-based handouts while core issues remain unaddressed,” he concluded.
