TDP rift explodes in Kurnool - Dalit leader alleges abuse, ‘kidnap’ threat from mandal convenor’s son-in-law

Kurnool: Internal differences in the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) have reportedly taken a serious turn in Chippagiri mandal, with a Dalit party leader from Kundanagurthi village alleging that he was subjected to abusive language and a threatening phone call by Teja, son-in-law of TDP mandal convenor Konda Purushotham. The alleged incident has triggered a fresh controversy within the party, as the complainant and the person accused of making the threat are both linked to the TDP.

According to Anand, Teja allegedly abused him over the phone and warned him against interfering with Purushotham. He allegedly threatened to kidnap him, saying, “You have crossed the limit. I will take you away.” Teja also allegedly asserted during the conversation that he was the son-in-law of TDP mandal convenor Konda Purushotham. The alleged audio of the conversation has reportedly been circulated on social media, intensifying the controversy in local TDP circles.

The episode has assumed added political significance against the backdrop of allegations that TDP leaders had earlier registered cases against Dalit persons following political clashes in the area. The latest allegations have now brought the party’s internal treatment of its own Dalit leaders into sharp focus. Party workers and local residents are questioning how a Dalit leader associated with the ruling party could allegedly face such intimidation from within the same political organisation.

The alleged threat has created a buzz among TDP ranks in the mandal, with Anand and his supporters seeking intervention from senior party leadership. They are demanding that the allegations be examined and appropriate action taken if the threatening call is found to be genuine. The controversy has also exposed growing friction within the local party ranks, putting the Chippagiri TDP leadership under pressure to address the allegations and prevent the issue from escalating further.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

V Narendra Kumar

V Narendra Kumar[email protected]

Narendra Kumar Varikuntla is a seasoned journalist with 15 years of experience in reporting and news coverage. He holds a Master's degree in English Literature. He is Staff Correspondent for The Hans India based in Kurnool in Andhra Pradesh Before embarking on his career in journalism, he worked with Tata Robins Fraser (TRF) as a Confidential Assistant at the Rourkela Steel Plant, where he served for 10 years. His tenure at TRF enabled him to develop strong administrative, communication, and organisational skills, which have significantly contributed to his success in journalism. He began his journalistic career with Deccan Chronicle, where he gained valuable experience in reporting and news gathering. Since 2015, he has been serving as a Staff Correspondent with The Hans India, covering the erstwhile Kurnool district, including Kurnool and Nandyal. During his journalism career, Narendra Kumar has extensively reported on governance, politics, public affairs, social issues, agriculture, and developmental activities. He is known for his commitment to accurate, balanced, and responsible journalism, maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. In addition to his journalistic profession, he is actively engaged in agriculture and personally cultivates 10 acres of farmland. His close association with farming provides him with firsthand insight into rural life and farmers' issues, enriching his reporting on agriculture and rural development.

Read More