KTR Condemns 'Illegal Arrest' of Dalit Leader, Alleges Congress Interference in Polls
In a strongly worded statement, BRS working president KT Rama Rao has vehemently condemned what he termed the 'illegal arrest' of former MLA Balka Suman, a prominent Dalit leader. Rao asserted that arresting Suman without any prior notice constitutes a cowardly act, highlighting the alleged targeting of marginalized communities in the political arena.
Allegations of Unconstitutional Meddling by Congress
KTR further escalated his criticism by directly accusing Minister G Vivek of unconstitutional interference in the election process at Kyathanapalli. He claimed that Vivek has been pressuring election officials to manipulate outcomes, which he described as a blatant violation of democratic norms. Rao warned that returning officers and police officials, who are mandated to remain impartial, are now acting under the undue influence of Congress leaders, signaling a dangerous decline in the integrity of democratic institutions.
In his statement, the former minister alleged that police officials have effectively become a 'private army' for the Congress party, carrying out orders that compromise electoral fairness. Despite what he characterized as a clear mandate from the people of Kyathanapalli in favor of the BRS, Rao expressed outrage over reports of candidates being kidnapped and cases being filed against those who resisted, labeling these actions as shameful and undemocratic.
Condemnation of False Cases and Harassment
Rao also condemned the filing of what he called 'false cases' and the subsequent arrest of former MLA Balka Suman. He stated that Suman was detained for merely questioning the minister's alleged illegal activities and election irregularities in Kyathanapalli. KTR issued a stern warning, asserting that if police continue to harass senior party leaders and activists, every officer involved in such actions would face severe consequences in the future, emphasizing accountability for those undermining the rule of law.
Expressing deep concern, Rao likened the 'inhumane treatment' of elected councillors to the buying and selling of cattle, alleging that those who could not be bribed were instead kidnapped. He cited specific incidents in Thorrur, Jangaon, and Zaheerabad to support his claims of widespread coercion and intimidation tactics employed during the municipal elections.
Questions Over Citizen Safety and Demands for Action
Rao raised alarming questions about the safety of ordinary citizens, pointing to an incident in Jangaon where a Dalit woman public representative was allegedly attacked in front of officials who failed to provide adequate protection. This, he argued, underscores a broader pattern of neglect and complicity in the face of violence against vulnerable groups.
In response to these alleged injustices, KTR demanded the unconditional release of Balka Suman and all BRS activists whom he claimed are being illegally detained. He urgently called on the State Election Commission and the governor to intervene immediately, conduct a thorough investigation into the irregularities plaguing the municipal elections, and take decisive action against police officers found guilty of misconduct. Rao stressed that such steps are crucial to restoring public trust and upholding the principles of democracy in the state.
