CM Revanth Reddy appears to have stirred the hornet’s nest with his plans to scrap some districts in Telangana. Reports suggest that the Congress government is considering reducing as many as 18 districts in the state.
The proposal, purportedly aimed at declaring 17 Lok Sabha constituencies as new districts, has been met with skepticism and apprehension. Critics have dubbed it as yet another impulsive decision. The timing of this proposal, especially in the lead-up to parliamentary elections, has only heightened tensions and fueled speculation regarding political motivations.
Among the districts slated for abolition are Asifabad, Nirmal, Jagtial, Mancherial, Sircilla, Sangareddy, Siddipet, Kamareddy, Vikarabad, Rangareddy, Narayanapet, Gadwal, Wanaparthy, Jangaon, Suryapet, Bhupalapalli, Mulugu, and Bhadradri Kothagudem. The potential consequences of such a drastic reshaping of administrative boundaries are multifaceted and alarming.
Firstly, the agricultural sector stands to bear the brunt of this decision, as land prices plummet and farmers face substantial losses. The ripple effect also extends to the real estate sector. Secondly, the proposed redistricting would unleash chaos within the government machinery, with the cancellation of promotions for district employees and inevitable transfers.
Thirdly, the educational landscape faces upheaval, necessitating the reorganization of student curriculums and administrative protocols. Central and state departments would be compelled to revise existing maps and syllabi. Fourthly, competitive exam syllabi and zonal policies would require extensive overhauls. The resultant administrative paralysis could potentially halt job notifications for around two years. Lastly, the physical infrastructure associated with existing district headquarters, including integrated collectorates and police buildings, risks becoming obsolete overnight.
Political observers have warned that the Congress government’s controversial decision, if implemented, could spell electoral disaster. Additionally, with this hasty proposal, the very purpose of reorganizing the Telangana districts for administrative convenience would be in vain.