KTR Ultimatum on Worker to Owner Scheme in Sircilla

KTR’s Warning to Government Over Worker to Owner Scheme

BRS working president KTR has issued a strong ultimatum to the current government, insisting that the Worker to Owner Scheme for Sircilla weavers be implemented before the Sankranti festival. He stated that the scheme was introduced to support traditional weavers, help them own their equipment, and ensure long-term financial stability. If the scheme continues to remain inactive, he warned that over 10,000 workers will take part in a massive protest to pressure the administration into action.

According to KTR, the initiative was originally designed with a vision to transform skilled weavers into independent owners rather than lifelong wage workers. The project included subsidies for the purchase of power looms, the provision of workspace, and specific budget allocations for the upcoming financial year. KTR demanded that the government immediately prepare the list of beneficiaries, allocate funds, and release pending subsidies to ensure the scheme does not collapse.

Claims of Negligence and Lack of Execution

KTR alleged that although the previous administration had allocated over 200 acres of land and about ₹400 crores to develop the project, the current government has failed to maintain or operate the facilities. He pointed out that the work sheds built for the scheme are now in poor condition, lacking maintenance and infrastructure support. Overgrown vegetation, foul smells, and unused spaces were highlighted as examples of negligence. He accused the ruling party of deliberately delaying the project, describing it as a form of betrayal toward the weaver community.

Weavers’ Economic History and the Need for Revival

KTR reminded that during the economic downfall of the Sircilla textile belt, several weavers faced financial crises, mental stress, and even tragic loss of life. He claimed that former Chief Minister KCR addressed the problem by providing Bathukamma saree orders worth ₹3,400 crores, allowing thousands of families to recover from unemployment and debt. The orders not only supported women beneficiaries but also generated consistent income for weavers, increasing their earnings from ₹8,000–₹10,000 to nearly ₹20,000 per month.

He further stated that these initiatives protected the traditional craft and ensured that the weaving industry remained stable during challenging times. The project helped female workers move away from unhealthy occupations like beedi rolling and join textile units where they could work safely with better income opportunities.

Concerns About Apparel Park and Employment Loss

Another major concern raised was the lack of progress in the Sircilla Apparel Park. KTR argued that although the previous government initiated the infrastructure and brought industries like Green Needle and Texport, which provided nearly 2,000 jobs, there has been no new industrial development after the recent change in administration. He emphasized that thousands of unemployed youth and women are waiting for job opportunities that never arrived, despite promises.

The original blueprint aimed to provide ownership rights to 1,500 weavers and secure employment for nearly 25,000 workers through textile and garment units. KTR criticized the government for failing to fulfill this commitment and stressed that the Worker to Owner Scheme must be revived immediately.

Support for Students and Social Outreach

During his visit, KTR also met students in a government hostel and participated in early New Year celebrations. He distributed bags to 57 students, cut a cake with them, and conveyed wishes for their academic future. He mentioned that education and social security must remain priority sectors and community support should not be influenced by political changes.

Standing With Journalists and Citizens

KTR assured journalists that their issues will be addressed in the Assembly, particularly regarding the demand to revise GO 252. He promised to raise the matter, discuss solutions, and ensure that press freedom and journalist safety are given importance. He emphasized that a government must respond to public needs rather than ignore them.

Condemnation of Racial Discrimination

Referring to a recent incident in Dehradun involving the murder of an MBA student, he condemned racial discrimination, stating that such acts violate the basic principles of humanity and the Constitution. He urged the central government to introduce stronger laws to prevent discrimination, protect citizens, and ensure quick legal action. According to him, equality is not just a word in the Constitution but a commitment to social justice.

KTR concluded that the weaver community should not lose hope and that he would stand with them until the scheme is executed. He appealed once again for the immediate launch of the Worker to Owner Scheme before Sankranti, allocation of funds in the new budget, and revival of all related projects. If not, he said, a mass protest will be organized with workers from across the region.