Surekha’s Allegations Shake Telangana Congress
A fresh political storm has erupted in Telangana Congress after Minister Konda Surekha accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy of conspiring to arrest her Officer on Special Duty (OSD), N Sumanth.
Late Wednesday night, police arrived at Surekha’s Hyderabad home to arrest Sumanth, who was recently removed from his post over corruption allegations. The minister’s daughter, Konda Sushmitha, confronted the task force, demanding proof and accusing the government of vendetta politics.
Surekha, who represents the Backward Class community, claimed the arrest attempt was politically motivated. She alleged that Reddy leaders were interfering in departmental affairs and targeting her aides without due process.
The incident has reignited caste tensions within the Congress party. Surekha’s supporters argue that BC ministers are being sidelined, while Reddy leaders dominate key decisions. The timing, just days before the Jubilee Hills bypoll, has added fuel to the fire.
Surekha also accused Ponguleti of meddling in ₹71 crore worth of contracts related to the Medaram tribal festival. She claimed undue interference in departmental tenders and project execution.
Despite growing media attention, the Congress high command has remained silent. Internal sources suggest attempts are underway to contain the fallout before it affects poll prospects.
Videos of Sushmitha confronting police have gone viral, sparking debates on political overreach and ministerial autonomy. Hashtags like #SurekhaStorm and #CongressCrack have trended across platforms.
BRS and BJP leaders have criticized the Congress government for internal chaos and lack of coordination. They’ve called for an independent probe into the OSD’s removal and departmental interference.
Legal experts have questioned the manner of the police operation, citing lack of warrants and procedural lapses. The Telangana Human Rights Forum has demanded a review of the arrest attempt.
With the bypoll around the corner, the Congress faces a credibility test. Analysts believe the incident could sway BC voters and affect internal campaign dynamics.
Known for her grassroots connect and assertive style, Surekha’s public defiance has drawn support from BC organizations and youth groups. Her future role in the cabinet may now be under review.
Senior Congress leaders have urged reconciliation and internal dialogue. They stress the need for unity ahead of upcoming elections and warn against factionalism.
The Surekha episode reflects deeper faultlines within Telangana Congress. As caste equations, power struggles, and public perception collide, the party must navigate carefully to retain its footing.
