BJP's Bandi Sanjay Alleges Opposition Alliance to Deny Mayor Post in Karimnagar
Union Minister of State for Home and Karimnagar MP Bandi Sanjay made serious allegations on Saturday, claiming that the Congress, BRS, and AIMIM are joining forces to prevent the Bharatiya Janata Party from securing the mayor's position in Karimnagar. This accusation comes despite the BJP's impressive performance in the recent municipal elections.
Allegations of Anti-Democratic Moves
Sanjay asserted that these three opposition parties collectively won only 26 wards in the municipal polls but are now attempting to capture the mayor's chair in what he described as a move "against the people's verdict." He revealed that he has received specific information indicating BRS corporators are being pressured to support the Congress nominee, while AIMIM is simultaneously staking its own claim to the mayor's post.
The BJP leader also raised concerns about alleged poaching attempts targeting BJP corporators, suggesting a coordinated effort to undermine his party's electoral success. Addressing journalists at a press conference held at the BJP office, Sanjay demanded immediate clarity from both BRS and Congress leadership regarding whether this alliance strategy was directed by their national high command or local leaders.
Demand for Transparency and Warning
Sanjay questioned whether there was a tacit understanding between Congress and BRS even before the municipal polls were conducted. He issued a stern warning, stating that "if the three parties go against the voters' verdict, the BJP would not leave the issue, and people would revolt against the parties."
The Union Minister emphasized that the BJP's vote share had increased significantly compared to previous elections, demonstrating that Karimnagar voters had reposed substantial faith in his party. He contrasted this with what he portrayed as opposition attempts to subvert democratic outcomes through backroom alliances.
Development Funds and Political Claims
Citing development initiatives, Sanjay highlighted that the central government had sanctioned Rs 1,400 crore to Karimnagar for various projects. He simultaneously alleged that the Congress state government had failed to release funds to municipalities and corporations over the past two years, creating what he suggested was a development deficit at the local level.
In a pointed remark directed at the state intelligence wing, Sanjay disclosed that he was informed they had predicted the BJP would be restricted to just 13 seats in the municipal polls. Contrary to this prediction, the party emerged as a major political force in Karimnagar, outperforming expectations.
Future Political Ambitions and Criticism
Looking ahead, Sanjay confidently asserted that the BJP would form the government in Telangana in 2028, signaling the party's long-term political ambitions in the state. He also commented on AIMIM's revival day celebrations, questioning what exactly the party meant by "revival" and asking whether this indicated an intention to bring back what he referred to as Razakar rule.
On a related note, Sanjay mentioned that Muslim women had shown support for the BJP following the NDA government's passage of the triple talaq bill in Parliament, suggesting this legislative action had resonated with certain segments of the community.
The allegations have intensified political tensions in Karimnagar, with the BJP positioning itself as the defender of democratic mandates against what it portrays as opportunistic opposition alliances. The situation continues to develop as municipal corporations prepare for mayoral elections.
