Article Today, Hyderabad:
The Andhra Pradesh government has taken a positive step by initiating the process of allotting housing plots to journalists. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has formed a cabinet sub-committee comprising ministers Anagani Satya Prasad, Kolusu Parthasarathi, and Ponguru Narayana to implement the plan. This move has sparked optimism among media professionals in the neighbouring state. However, Telangana continues to remain in a state of uncertainty, despite pre-election promises.
Congress Manifesto Commitment Under Scrutiny
During the Telangana assembly elections, the Congress party had pledged housing plots for journalists in its official manifesto. The assurance was given after members of the Deccan Journalists’ Housing Society (DJHS) met Revanth Reddy, who was then the party president. After assuming office as Chief Minister, Revanth publicly reiterated his promise to allocate land for journalists in the proposed Future City. But months later, there has been no movement on this front.
Supreme Court Judgment Creates Confusion
The delay is partly attributed to a Supreme Court verdict concerning a separate journalists’ housing society in Petbasheerabad. In that case, the Court questioned the classification of journalists as beneficiaries under welfare schemes, describing them as part of the affluent class. This interpretation has cast a shadow over the Telangana government’s plans, causing hesitation and confusion within the administration.
Most Journalists Come from Modest Backgrounds
Contrary to the Court’s observations, nearly 80% of working journalists in Telangana belong to economically weaker sections or lower-middle-class families. The majority struggle with low incomes and limited benefits, especially those working in regional media and small outlets. Only a few employees in major media houses enjoy financial stability. The rest face regular hardship in managing their households.
A Ruling that Shattered Long-held Dreams
For years, members of the Jawaharlal Nehru Journalists’ Housing Society had hoped for land allocation in Petbasheerabad. The Society had applied for 38 acres. However, the Supreme Court’s decision effectively blocked this proposal, leaving many journalists disillusioned. DJHS leaders have strongly criticised the ruling, pointing out that if other weaker sections are entitled to land and housing benefits, journalists—most of whom come from similar backgrounds—should not be excluded.
Future City promise remains unfulfilled
Chief Minister Revanth Reddy had promised that plots would be allotted to journalists in Future City and assured immediate action on the housing society files. “I will sign it within a minute,” he had declared. However, the Supreme Court verdict has stalled progress. Still, several journalist leaders remain hopeful. They believe the government can seek a legal review or explore alternate options to fulfil the promise without violating the court’s orders.
Call for Government to Act like AP
The recent decision by Andhra Pradesh to move forward with plot allocation has put pressure on the Telangana government. Leaders of the DJHS, including General Secretary Amrutha, Vice-President Maripala Srinivas, and Treasurer Ayyappa, are urging the Revanth-led administration to show similar initiative. They argue that constitutional and legal avenues remain open for the government to honour its commitment.
Growing Frustration, Fading Patience
Journalists in Telangana are growing increasingly impatient. Many have been waiting for years in anticipation of secure housing. While promises were made before elections, the lack of follow-through is deepening disappointment. The journalist community now looks to the Chief Minister for a clear stand and decisive action in the face of legal and administrative hurdles.
A Test of Political Will
The issue has now become a test of political will. If the Telangana government is sincere about its commitment to media welfare, it must explore feasible and lawful alternatives to deliver on its promise. The journalist community hopes that the state leadership will not allow their long-standing aspirations to remain unfulfilled, especially when other states are setting a positive example.
