Revanth Reddy Clarifies ‘Nene Raju, Nene Mantri’ Remark, Reaffirms Commitment to Service and Tribal Welfare

Hyderabad, Feb 2026 :Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy on Sunday clarified that his recent remark “Nene Raju, Nene Mantri” (I am the king, I am the minister) had been misinterpreted, asserting that the statement was made purely in the context of accountability for municipal election results and not as an expression of arrogance or authority.

Addressing Sant Sevalal Jayanti celebrations at Banjara Bhavan, the Chief Minister explained that his comment referred to his dual responsibility as both the Chief Minister and the Municipal Administration Minister. “I only meant that I am answerable for the performance and outcomes of the municipal elections. There was no other intention behind the remark,” he said.

Revanth Reddy had made the statement on Friday during an interaction with the media in New Delhi, where he also remarked that there was no competition for the Chief Minister’s post either in state politics or within the Congress party. On Sunday, he reiterated that his words should be seen in the proper context and not misconstrued as a claim of personal supremacy.

Emphasising that he does not view himself as a ruler, Revanth Reddy said his primary objective is to serve the people of Telangana. He noted that the Congress party secured nearly 85 to 90 per cent success in recent municipal elections, reflecting public trust in the government’s policies and leadership. “I am not someone who becomes arrogant in victory or loses heart in defeat. My focus remains on working for the poor and marginalised,” he said.

Taking an indirect swipe at opposition leaders, the Chief Minister remarked that some political figures believe they are “born to rule,” while he believes in democratic accountability and service-oriented governance. He stressed that power should always be exercised with humility and responsibility.

Paying rich tributes to Sant Sevalal, Revanth Reddy described him as a guiding force for nearly 15 crore members of the Lambada community across the country. He said the Lambada community played a crucial role in the Telangana movement and added that the Congress government has taken the responsibility of officially celebrating Sevalal Jayanti as a mark of respect and recognition.

The Chief Minister underlined that tribals, along with Dalits, should receive priority and due respect in governance and development initiatives. Reflecting on his two-decade-long political career, he claimed that the Lambada community has consistently supported him, strengthening his resolve to work for their welfare.

Announcing key infrastructure initiatives, Revanth Reddy said he has issued orders to lay bitumen tar roads in all Thandas (tribal hamlets) across the state to ensure proper connectivity. He also called for the construction of a government school and a Gram Panchayat building in every Thanda, stressing that basic civic infrastructure is essential for inclusive development.

He further revealed plans to provide electricity to tribal hamlets through solar power plants, aiming to promote sustainable and reliable energy solutions in remote areas. Recalling historical contributions, he said it was former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi who introduced reservations for tribals and allocated land to them.

Acknowledging present-day constraints, Revanth Reddy said the government no longer has land to distribute but remains committed to tribal welfare through quality education and social support. “The government is ready to provide good education. Tribal students must study hard and move forward,” he said.

Highlighting steps taken for weaker sections, the Chief Minister said his vision is to make people from backward communities active partners in governance. He pointed out that although Scheduled Castes constitute about 15 per cent of the population, the government has allocated nearly 30 per cent of posts to them, including four ministerial positions and the post of Assembly Speaker, reflecting the administration’s commitment to social justice and inclusive representation.