Telangana: KCR plans Rs. 66 crore iftar, activists approach court
What's the story
An iftar party hosted by Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrashekhar Rao today evening has led activists approaching the High Court.
KCR is rumored to spending a whopping Rs. 66 crore for the gathering, that is expected to be attended by 7,000 guests. The CM is also reported to distribute clothes to 12 lakh people across the state.
Activists called it a waste of taxpayers' money.
Details
Since 2015, KCR spent crores in iftar parties
KCR's iftar parties have become a routine since 2015 and crores are spent on it.
Social activist Lubna Sarwath said, "The high court orders of June 16, 2017, have been violated by the state government. Contempt proceedings shall be initiated against the state government."
She asked influential people to boycott the iftar. Interestingly, since 2014 KCR holds minority welfare ministry portfolio.
The case
Not lavish parties, spend money on welfare schemes: Activists
When the Hyderabad HC refused to entertain fresh PIL seeking cancellation of the party, the social activists sought contempt proceedings against the government for allegedly violating judicial orders on iftar.
The High Court has now asked for a list of beneficiaries of iftar hosted in 2017.
Instead of lavish parties, the activists demand the money spend on welfare schemes, especially for physically challenged.
Quote
"People should decide what should be done with taxpayers' money"
"People should decide if they approve of such a ridiculous 'spending culture', funded by taxpayers' money. Government money is only for the welfare of the public, without distinction or discrimination of religion, caste, and gender," Lubna said.
Looking back
The culture of iftar parties
The tradition to host iftars goes back to Jawahar Lal Nehru's era when he feasted with his Muslim colleagues. It was stopped when Lal Bahadur Shastri became PM. Later in Indira Gandhi's time, the culture was revived.
Interestingly, President Ram Nath Kovind said he won't host any iftars on taxpayers' money.
This year, neither ruling BJP nor opposition hosted any iftars.