Telangana CM Revanth Reddy cancels US visit after MEA denies clearance

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has cancelled the United States leg of his international tour after the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) denied political clearance for the visit. While his trip to the United Kingdom was approved, the MEA stated that the proposed US itinerary was not appropriate for the office held and the stated purpose of the visit.

Reddy had intended to visit major American academic institutions, including Harvard University and MIT, to establish partnerships aimed at making Hyderabad a global hub for education, innovation, and research. Following the denial, Reddy announced he would return to Hyderabad from London instead of proceeding to Boston.

The decision has sparked significant political controversy. The Indian Overseas Congress and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the move, alleging that the denial was politically motivated and undermines federalism by stalling state-level investment initiatives. Conversely, members of the BJP questioned the appropriateness of the trip, citing reports of a tentative meeting with New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani, whom they characterized as having anti-India views.

Despite the cancellation of his personal travel, the Chief Minister’s office indicated that a delegation would continue with planned engagements to pursue MoUs and partnerships with American educational institutions.