K. T. Rama Rao, a prominent leader of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) and the former Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development in Telangana, appeared before the Telangana Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) as part of an ongoing investigation into the alleged irregularities in the organization of the Formula E race held in Hyderabad.
The international motorsport event, held in early 2023, was seen as a major initiative to promote Hyderabad as a global city and to boost tourism and infrastructure. However, following complaints from activists and opposition parties, allegations surfaced regarding the improper allocation of public funds, procedural lapses, and irregularities in contract awards related to the event.
The Telangana ACB initiated a preliminary inquiry based on these complaints and subsequently summoned key officials and political figures involved in the planning and execution of the event. As the then minister overseeing urban development, K. T. Rama Rao played a key role in facilitating the event, which has now come under scrutiny.
Sources in the ACB said that the questioning focused on decisions related to fund allocation, the selection of private firms for event logistics, infrastructure setup, and permissions granted by various government departments. KTR was asked to provide documentation and official communication related to his involvement in the project.
Officials emphasized that the appearance was part of a fact-finding process and not an indication of direct wrongdoing. However, opposition parties have claimed that the event was misused for political and personal promotion at the cost of public money. They have demanded a thorough and impartial investigation.
K. T. Rama Rao, after appearing before the ACB, told media representatives that he had nothing to hide and that the investigation would prove the integrity of the decisions taken during his tenure. He also stated that the Formula E event was a prestigious global initiative that brought international attention to Hyderabad and that all processes were followed transparently and with due diligence.
Meanwhile, political analysts believe that the case could have broader implications for the BRS party, especially at a time when the party is facing increased scrutiny after the recent elections. The ACB is expected to continue its inquiry and may summon more officials in the coming weeks.
The Formula E event, despite being celebrated as a success in terms of participation and visibility, has now become a political flashpoint in Telangana. The outcome of the investigation could influence public perception regarding transparency and accountability in governance during the BRS administration.
The ACB has not yet indicated a timeline for the completion of the investigation, but officials confirmed that all necessary documents and testimonies are being collected before proceeding to the next stage.
