Political Storm in Telangana: Confrontation over Police Action Against Endowments Minister’s OSD
The political landscape in Telangana was rocked by a major controversy involving police行动, allegations of corruption, and high-level accusations against the Chief Minister and his ministers. The issue centers around the attempt to arrest N Sumanth, Officer on Special Duty (OSD) to Endowments Minister Konda Surekha, which unfolded late Wednesday night and has sparked widespread political upheaval.
Background of the Controversy
The trouble began on Tuesday night when the Telangana government terminated Sumanth’s services, following serious allegations of corruption. The Telangana State Pollution Control Board (TGPCB), which initially appointed him on a one-year contract, later deputed him to the Minister’s office with an extension until December.
Sumanth is accused of engaging in activities such as interference in official matters, pressuring government officials, and involvement in large-scale corruption, including accepting bribes from stone crusher operators for environmental clearances and mismanaging funds related to the Medaram Jatara festival. These serious charges prompted initial action, with the Chief Minister, A Revanth Reddy, ordering an investigation into the allegations.
The Police Action and Political Interference
On Wednesday night, police personnel reportedly reached Surekha’s residence, allegedly acting on intelligence that Sumanth was hiding there. This prompted his daughter, Konda Sushmita, to intervene by confronting the police and speaking out publicly.
Sushmita accused the Chief Minister and other ministers — including Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy and Advisor Vem Narender Reddy — of being behind the police operation, framing it as part of a vendetta or political conspiracy.
Allegations of Conspiracy and Extortion
Sushmita further claimed that the case against Sumanth was linked to a supposed extortion complaint filed by Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy, which he denied having lodged when contacted. She issued a warning of serious repercussions if anything happened to her family or Sumanth, intensifying the controversy.
Political Ramifications
This incident has led to a significant political row, with accusations of misconduct and attempts at character assassination flying between the government and opposition figures. The role of the Chief Minister’s Office in the police action has come under scrutiny, raising questions about political influence over law enforcement.
Conclusion
The Telangana controversy involving the police attempt to arrest Sumanth, the allegations of corruption, and the political allegations by Konda Surekha’s family have created a volatile situation. It has exposed underlying tensions within the ruling Congress government and drawn national attention to governance and law enforcement practices in the state.
This incident remains fluid, and further developments are expected as authorities and political actors respond to the evolving situation.