Telangana Chief Minister and state Congress chief Revanth Reddy made significant remarks about his party's enduring legacy during a key executive meeting in Hyderabad on Monday. His comments, which praised the internal democracy within the Indian National Congress, have ignited a fresh political controversy, drawing sharp criticism from the opposition Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).
Congress's Longevity Rooted in Democratic Freedom: CM
Addressing the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) executive meeting on December 2, 2025, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy attributed the party's survival for over a century to the freedom of expression it allows its members. He asserted that the Congress party has managed to exist for 140 years precisely because it fosters an environment of open dialogue and internal debate.
"Because there is freedom in the Congress, the party has existed for 140 years," Reddy stated. He presented a contrasting view, suggesting that a lack of such democratic space leads to a party's demise. "If there were no freedom, it would have shut down long ago, like the other regional parties, like the Janata Party," he added, indirectly pointing to historical examples of political formations that collapsed.
BRS Fires Back, Accuses CM of Insulting Hindu Sentiments
The Chief Minister's statements quickly drew a vehement response from the opposition BRS. Party leader Rakesh Reddy Anugula launched a scathing attack on Revanth Reddy, accusing him of mocking Hindu deities and hurting religious sentiments.
In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Anugula wrote, "It has become a fashion for everyone to mock Hindu gods." He expressed strong disapproval, stating, "It is unfortunate that a person at the level of Chief Minister, Revanth Reddy, speaks by cursing the gods in a way that hurts the feelings of crores of Hindus." The BRS leader's post included a rhetorical question questioning Reddy's political consistency, further intensifying the war of words.
Political Ripples from the Hyderabad Meeting
The exchange highlights the increasingly charged political atmosphere in Telangana. The TPCC executive meeting, meant to strategize for the party's future course, has now become a focal point for a broader ideological and political clash. While CM Reddy's comments were aimed at underscoring the Congress's institutional strength and historical resilience, the BRS's counterattack has shifted the narrative to one of religious sensitivity and leadership conduct.
This incident is likely to fuel further debates on political discourse in the state. It underscores the fine line politicians walk when making historical comparisons and the immediate readiness of opponents to capitalize on any perceived misstep. The development in Hyderabad sets the stage for continued political skirmishes as both major parties position themselves ahead of future electoral battles.
