KTR outshines KCR at Metro Rail launch

Hyderabad : Indicating a possible change of guard sooner or later, Chief Minister K. Chandrashekhar Rao allowed his son and IT Minister K. Tarakarama Rao to stay in limelight during the launch of Hyderabad Metro Rail by Prime Minister Narender Modi on Tuesday.

Although KCR, along with Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan, travelled with the Prime Minister in the same helicopter from Begumpet Airport to Miyapur Metro Station, he appeared a bit silent when compared to his behaviour during PM Modi's earlier visits to the State. When the Prime Minister was given a scissor to cut the ribbon to formally inaugurate the Miyapur Railway Station, he apparently asked for KTR who was standing behind. Although KCR was standing on immediate right side of PM Modi, he cut the ribbon only after KTR came closer to him.

When the Prime Minister boarded the Metro Train, KCR took a seat next to the Governor and allowed KTR to sit next to Modi. Enroute, it was KTR who briefed the Prime Minister about various features of Hyderabad Metro Rail.

According to sources, KCR was a bit upset over PM Modi's speech at Begumpet Airport. Addressing the BJP workers, Modi said Hyderabad reminds him of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel and the struggle for liberation of Hyderabad State. This was apparently to counter KCR's speech in Assembly wherein he had showered praises on erstwhile ruler Nizam. However, it could not be concluded with certainty whether the Prime Minister's Hyderabad visit has strained KCR's relations with Modi or he had used this occasion to project his son as his successor.

Interestingly, there have been several posts on social media pointing out the absence of Irrigation Minister T. Harish Rao from such an important event.