Lokesh condemns Medaram vendor harassment

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh has strongly condemned the harassment of a small vendor from Kurnool district during the Medaram Jatara in Telangana, describing the incident as deeply disturbing and contrary to the values of communal harmony historically upheld by Telugu society. The minister publicly apologised to the victim and called for unity and mutual respect amid growing outrage over the episode.

The controversy erupted after a video surfaced on social media showing a roadside vendor, identified as Vali, allegedly being harassed by a group of YouTubers while he was selling khoya buns at the internationally renowned tribal festival. According to reports, Vali, a small-scale trader from Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh, had set up a temporary stall at the Medaram Jatara to earn a livelihood during the massive religious gathering that attracts lakhs of devotees from across the Telugu states.

In the viral video, the YouTubers were seen confronting the vendor and accusing him of engaging in “food jihad,” a controversial and communally charged allegation. The individuals allegedly obstructed his business activities and forced him to consume the food item he was selling, an act widely criticised online as humiliating and intimidatory. The footage triggered sharp reactions across social media platforms, with many users condemning the incident as harassment rooted in religious intolerance.

Responding swiftly after the video gained traction, Minister Nara Lokesh issued a statement through his official X account, expressing regret over the incident and extending a public apology to the vendor. “Dear Brother Vali, I am deeply sorry that you had to endure this. Such divisive and communal behaviour has no place in our Telugu society, which has always stood for harmony, mutual respect, and brotherhood,” Lokesh stated in his post.

Emphasising the need to preserve social cohesion, the minister underscored that the cultural fabric of the Telugu-speaking people has historically been built on coexistence and inclusivity rather than division along religious lines. He further sought to reassure the victim, adding, “I will meet you soon and look forward to tasting your famous khoya bun. Let us all stand together.”

Meanwhile, calls are growing for authorities to take appropriate action against those involved in the alleged harassment, with many urging stricter enforcement against acts that incite communal discord or target vulnerable livelihoods under the guise of online activism.