Political Tensions Flare in Kamareddy Over Land Dispute Allegations
Hyderabad: A significant political confrontation unfolded in Kamareddy town on Saturday, creating a tense atmosphere as government advisor Shabbir Ali of the Congress party and BJP MLA Venkata Ramana Reddy clashed over serious allegations of irregularities involving government land. The dispute has centered on properties associated with key educational institutions, including the Government Degree College, Shishu Mandir School, and Aurora College, sparking heated exchanges between the rival political factions.
Police Deployment and Preventive Measures
As supporters from both the Congress and BJP parties gathered near Shishu Mandir School, authorities responded with substantial police deployment to prevent potential law and order problems. Police imposed strict restrictions and positioned forces at sensitive locations throughout the town, including the MLA's camp office and residence. In a precautionary move, Venkata Ramana Reddy was placed under house arrest from the morning hours, with security significantly tightened around his residential premises.
Allegations and Counter-Challenges
Congress leaders have leveled accusations against the BJP MLA and his family members, claiming wrongdoing in the handling of government lands. Venkata Ramana Reddy firmly rejected these charges, declaring his readiness for an open public debate with documentary evidence to support his position. The MLA challenged his political rivals to substantiate their claims with concrete proof, emphasizing that the public deserves complete clarity on the matter. Both sides initially agreed to hold a public discussion at Shishu Mandir, though the escalating tensions ultimately prevented this from occurring as planned.
Escalation and Confrontation
Despite police restrictions, several Congress activists managed to reach the MLA's camp office, where they raised slogans and protested. BJP workers also arrived at the location, leading to a brief but intense clash between the opposing groups. During the commotion, Congress leader Gireddy Mahender Reddy's vehicle was damaged and overturned before police intervention restored order. Kamareddy district SP M Rajesh Chandra reported that Mahender Reddy was arrested for allegedly driving his car at high speed toward the MLA's office while ignoring police instructions to stop. He has since been remanded to judicial custody.
Political Fallout and Further Developments
Following the incident, Venkata Ramana Reddy made a dramatic statement, vowing to resign from his position if corruption charges against him could be proven. He accused Shabbir Ali of political targeting and challenged him to provide evidence of wrongdoing specifically related to the 263-acre college land issue. BJP state president N Ramchander Rao condemned what he described as an attack on the MLA and announced plans to visit Kamareddy. Meanwhile, Malkajgiri MP Eatala Rajender was stopped by police and placed under house arrest while attempting to travel to Kamareddy to meet with the BJP MLA. Officials confirmed that preventive security measures remain actively in force throughout the district.
Broader Implications
The incident highlights the intensifying political rivalry in Telangana ahead of upcoming elections, with land disputes becoming a focal point for confrontation. The heavy police presence and multiple arrests demonstrate the seriousness with which authorities are treating potential political violence. Both parties appear entrenched in their positions, with Congress leaders maintaining they possess evidence to support their allegations while BJP representatives demand proper documentation and proof. The situation continues to develop as political leaders from both sides prepare their next moves in this escalating conflict over government land management and alleged irregularities.
