K. T. Rama Rao, working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi, intensified his criticism of the Congress government over the ongoing political row regarding Telangana’s debt. Addressing a press conference at Telangana Bhavan, KTR alleged that Congress ministers had backed away from a public debate after issuing a challenge. Referring to the episode, he remarked that “challenging first and then walking away has become a habit,” accusing the ruling party of avoiding a discussion on the state’s finances.

KTR claimed that senior BRS leader T. Harish Rao was stopped by police while on his way to participate in the proposed debate, and alleged that BRS leaders were prevented from meeting those who were detained at the Kanchanbagh police station. He accused the Congress government of using diversionary tactics instead of engaging in an open discussion on Telangana’s financial situation and governance.

The BRS leader also rejected the Congress government’s criticism of the previous administration’s borrowings, stating that the BRS government had borrowed around ₹2.8 lakh crore during its tenure. He challenged Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy to convene a special session of the Assembly to debate the state’s finances, governance, and implementation of election promises. KTR said the BRS was prepared to present its arguments if given adequate time in the Assembly without interruptions.

Meanwhile, Telangana minister Jupally Krishna Rao responded by reiterating his willingness to participate in a public debate and proposed holding the discussion at the Hyderabad Press Club.