‘Fear of defeat led to intimidation politics’

Describing the death of BJP municipal candidate Mahadevappa as “deeply disturbing and painful,” Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy said the tragic incident has shaken him profoundly and reflects the alarming state of political intimidation in Telangana. He stated that the matter was raised in both Houses of Parliament, adding that BJP high command personally reviewed the issue and directed him to visit Makthal and meet the bereaved family.

Kishan Reddy visited the residence of Mahadevappa, who was contesting as BJP candidate from Ward No. 6 in Makthal Municipality, and handed over a cheque of ₹10 lakh to the family. He conveyed his heartfelt condolences and assured them that the BJP would stand firmly by them during this difficult time.

Alleging that Mahadevappa, a tribal youth leader, was unable to withstand sustained harassment by Congress leaders, the Union Minister said the ruling party has been resorting to threats, coercion, and misuse of official machinery during the ongoing municipal elections. He accused Congress leaders of intimidating BJP candidates and workers across Telangana — from Makthal to Godavarikhani, Zaheerabad to Khammam — by filing false cases, summoning them to police stations, threatening cancellation of welfare schemes and ration cards, and pressuring family members.

He stated that BJP was poised to secure a comfortable majority in Ward No. 6, citing past electoral trends, and alleged that fear of defeat drove the Congress to adopt such tactics. “Democracy cannot survive under an atmosphere of fear and coercion,” he remarked.

Meanwhile, BJP National President Nitin Nabin expressed deep anguish over the incident and sought a detailed report from Telangana BJP State President N. Ramchander Rao. The party condemned what it described as systematic attempts to influence municipal elections through money power and intimidation. The BJP further accused the Telangana government of violating Election Commission norms by transferring senior officials during the election period and unilaterally dividing the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation into three corporations without adequate consultation, calling the move unconstitutional.

Reiterating its commitment to democratic values, the BJP said it would continue to fight against intimidation politics and stand firmly with Mahadevappa’s family.