BRS protests renaming of Annapurna canteens

Hyderabad

Corporators from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) staged a protest at the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) office on Saturday, condemning the Congress-led Telangana government’s decision to rename the popular Annapurna Canteens as Indiramma Canteens. The move has sparked political controversy across the state.

BRS leaders argued that the name ‘Annapurna’—symbolic of the Goddess of Food—holds cultural significance and was appropriately chosen by former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR). They alleged that no enhancements had been made to the canteen’s services, making the renaming politically motivated.

“We respect Indira Gandhi, but the name change is unnecessary. Annapurna signifies nourishment and was deeply rooted in our welfare vision,” said BRS corporator Sindhu Reddy. She also accused the police of manhandling peaceful protestors.

BRS leader Krishank criticized Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, claiming the name change was a publicity stunt meant to appease the Gandhi family ahead of elections. “Instead of launching new welfare schemes, this government is busy changing names. It’s shameful,” he said. BJP National Spokesperson NV Subhash echoed similar concerns, terming it a “return gift” to Indira Gandhi on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency.

In defence, Congress leader Hanumantha Rao stated the renaming was a tribute to Indira Gandhi’s pro-poor reforms. “Every poor person who eats the Rs 5 meal should remember her contribution,” he said, adding that Indira Gandhi’s legacy of land reforms and nationalisation justifies the symbolic gesture. The Annapurna Canteen scheme, originally launched by BRS, provides subsidised meals to the urban poor.