The Telangana Congress levelled fresh allegations of corruption against BRS leader and former Minister T. Harish Rao, claiming that several companies linked to him witnessed a sharp increase in business during his tenure in power.

In a social media post and later in a statement, the Congress alleged that Mr. Rao had established or promoted several business interests while holding ministerial positions.

Referring to Arvais Natures Products Private Limited, which markets Milchy Milk, the Congress claimed that the company recorded 614% revenue growth in a year after Mr Rao assumed charge as Health Minister. According to the party, the company’s revenue, which stood at about ₹7 crore before he took charge, rose to ₹198 crore by the time he left office.

The Congress also cited Jiva Tech Surgicals Private Limited, another company it claimed was linked to Mr. Rao. It alleged that the company, which had recorded a 13.9% loss, subsequently registered a 54% growth in business.

The party questioned whether the sharp growth in the businesses amounted to a “quid pro quo” or abuse of ministerial power and demanded answers from BRS president K. Chandrasekhar Rao and working president K.T. Rama Rao.

The Congress further alleged that Mr Harish Rao had used his position to conduct business with hospitals and expand his business interests during the ten-year BRS rule.