Telangana  people erupt in anger 

Telangana and Andhra Pradesh have been separate states for more than ten years now, but the political friction between leaders on both sides shows no signs of fading. The latest example is Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan’s remark that “Konaseema has been jinxed by Telangana,” a comment that has stirred a political storm in Telangana. Congress leaders have launched a blistering attack, while the BJP — a key ally of Pawan Kalyan — remains silent.

The formation of Telangana was the result of decades of public aspiration, countless movements, and the sacrifices of many martyrs. Persistent injustice in the united Andhra Pradesh pushed the people of Telangana to demand a separate state. Despite resistance and roadblocks created by leaders of the erstwhile united state, Telangana was finally formed after years of struggle under the second phase of the movement.

Even after the bifurcation, people of Telangana hoped for cordial relations between the two states. But the lingering resentment among certain Andhra Pradesh leaders continues to surface. Pawan Kalyan’s recent comments are seen as yet another example of this attitude.

Pawan Kalyan’s comment triggers Outrage

For nearly two decades, “Andhra-related issues” have remained politically sensitive in Telangana. Pawan Kalyan’s remark has now become a major talking point across political circles.

Leaders from several Telangana parties are strongly criticising him, saying it is unfair to cite Telangana’s success while blaming the state for problems in Konaseema. They argue that such comments insult Telangana’s progress, pride, and identity.

Congress leaders, in particular, say Telangana is showcasing development nationally under Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, and remarks like these undermine the state’s reputation and dignity. They demand an unconditional apology from Pawan Kalyan, warning that Telangana will not tolerate any insult to its self-respect.

For the Congress, Pawan Kalyan’s remarks have come as a political opportunity. The party is using the controversy on two fronts. To corner the BJP, which is allied with Pawan Kalyan’s Jana Sena, and to gain an advantage in the ongoing local body elections.

By highlighting that only Congress can protect Telangana’s self-respect, the party hopes to appeal to rural voters, who are crucial in panchayat polls. Congress strategists intend to take this controversy deep into villages to portray the BJP and Jana Sena as parties that “insulted Telangana.”

Jana Sena issues a clarification, no Apology

The Jana Sena Party has attempted damage control, claiming Pawan Kalyan’s remarks were distorted. Pawan stated that he had no intention to insult Telan- gana, and was merely referring to the developmental differences between the two states. However, Telangana leaders remain unsatisfied, arguing that referring to Telangana as an ill-omen is unacceptable and merits a direct apology. They say Pawan’s explanation only proves he is trying to control the fallout.

They also point out that many Andhra-origin political leaders, businessmen, and film personalities continue to live, work, and prosper in Telangana — especially Hyderabad — yet still show resentment towards the state.

BJP’s silence raises questions

While Pawan Kalyan’s remarks have provoked strong reactions across Telangana, the BJP — his coalition partner in Andhra Pradesh — has chosen to remain completely silent. This silence has raised eyebrows and triggered criticism from opposition parties, who accuse the BJP of ignoring Telangana’s sentiments.

Many political observers believe the BJP must take responsibility and urge Pawan Kalyan to apologise, especially since the remarks have hurt the emotions of Telangana’s people.

This controversy, now snowballing into a larger political issue, is likely to influence the tone of both state politics and the ongoing local elections in Telangana.