- Chairmen’s Rule in Agri Corp
- MDs Reduced to Powerless Figures
- Agriculture Corporations in Crisis
- Chief Minister Takes Notice
Article Today, Hyderabad:
The agriculture sector in Telangana is facing a severe crisis due to the alleged misdeeds of chairmen in various corporations. These chairmen are reportedly overriding the powers of Managing Directors (MDs) and running the corporations like their personal fiefdoms, with impunity.
Chairmen’s Law: Whims and Fancies
In corporations like Agro Industries Corporation (Agros), Telangana Seeds corporation, Telangana State Oilpalm Seeds Growers’ Federation (Oilfed), Ware Housing Corporation, HACA, TSCAB and others, chairmen are taking crucial decisions without consulting the MDs. They are also allegedly indulging in corruption and favoritism, causing huge losses to the corporations. The chairmen’s rule of fear has led to a situation where employees are forced to toe their line, or face the consequences.
MDs Reduced to Powerless Figures
IAS officers heading these some corporations as MDs are being dictated by the chairmen, who are often junior politicians. This has led to a situation where MDs are unable to exercise their powers and are being forced to toe the chairmen’s line. The MDs’ inability to act has emboldened the chairmen, who are now allegedly running the corporations as their personal kingdoms.
Harassment and Intimidation: The New Norm
Some chairmen are reportedly harassing employees who do not toe their line. They are also allegedly terminating the services of employees who refuse to obey their orders. Women employees are also facing harassment and are being forced to work long hours. The chairmen’s behavior has created a culture of fear and intimidation in the corporations.
Misuse of CSR Funds: A New Low
One chairman has been accused of misusing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds for personal gain. He allegedly used these funds for organizing sports events in his district, which has sparked outrage among employees and farmers. The misuse of CSR funds is a serious issue and highlights the chairmen’s lack of accountability.
Minister’s Hands Tied
Despite repeated complaints, Agriculture Minister Thummala Nageswara Rao seems powerless to stop the alleged misdeeds of these chairmen. One chairman has even defied the minister’s instructions, highlighting the extent of their alleged arrogance. The minister’s inability to act has raised questions about the government’s ability to govern the corporations.
Chief Minister Takes Notice
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has reportedly taken notice of the alleged misdeeds of some chairmen and is planning to take action against them. It remains to be seen whether this will bring some accountability to the corporations and restore the rule of law. The chief minister’s intervention is eagerly awaited by employees and farmers who are suffering due to the chairmen’s alleged misdeeds.
The Future of Telangana’s Agriculture
The alleged misdeeds of the chairmen have raised serious concerns about the future of Telangana’s agriculture sector. If the corporations continue to be run like personal fiefdoms, the sector’s growth and development will be severely impacted. The government needs to take strong action against the errant chairmen and restore the rule of law in the corporations. Only then can the agriculture sector realize its full potential and benefit the farmers and employees.
