Harish demands immediate release of Balka Suman

Metro India News | Hyderabad

Former Minister and senior BRS leader T. Harish Rao on Wednesday demanded for the immediate release of BRS leader and former MLA Balka Suman, strongly condemning his arrest and detention by the police in Kyathanpalli municipality. Speaking to the media here, Harish Rao alleged that despite the BRS securing a clear majority in Kyathanpalli, the ruling Congress party was “mocking democracy” and misusing authority, police power and money to influence municipal outcomes.

He accused the Congress government of promoting “Goondagiri politics”, and claimed that the opposition leaders were being harassed in several municipalities with hung verdicts.

KTR screams political vendetta

BRS working president KT Rama Rao on Wednesday condemned the arrest of former MLA Balka Suman, calling it a “cowardly and unconstitutional act” by the A. Revanth Reddy–led government. He alleged the Dalit leader was targeted without notice, reflecting political vendetta, and accused Congress of misusing police as a “private army” against opposition.

KTR also cited irregularities in municipal elections, claiming BRS candidates faced intimidation, harassment, and coercion, while democratic institutions weakened. He demanded the immediate release of Balka Suman and detained activists, urging the State Election Commission and Governor to investigate. KTR warned that opposition voices cannot be silenced and those responsible for alleged irregularities will be held accountable.

Vivek condemns attack by Balka Suman in Kyathanpally

Labour and Mines Minister Gaddam Vivek Venkatswamy strongly condemned the attack on him and an MP in Kyathanpally, blaming BRS leader Balka Suman and his supporters for damaging vehicle windows and creating disturbances. Speaking to the media, he questioned whether such conduct fits democratic norms and urged Harish Rao to condemn the actions.

Vivek clarified there were no issues in Kyathanpally before the incident and accused Suman of provoking tensions for political gain. He explained that a municipal meeting was adjourned due to lack of quorum, while outsiders later caused disruptions, including stone-pelting, further delaying proceedings.

The Minister called Suman’s allegations false and described the staged disturbances as attempts to exploit the situation. Referring to past events in Chennur and Kyathanpally, Vivek alleged elections were previously manipulated under pressure tactics, yet asserted that his team never obstructed any processes.

He stressed that attacks on a Minister and MP are unacceptable, accusing Suman of behaving as if still in power despite electoral defeats. Vivek reiterated commitment to democratic principles, peaceful conduct, and demanded accountability for those responsible for the violence.