Telangana minister removed
Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has moved to remove minister Konda Surekha from the state Cabinet, bringing an escalating dispute within the Telangana Congress to a major political flashpoint.
The Chief Minister sent a recommendation to Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla seeking Surekha’s removal from the Council of Ministers. The decision came after a prolonged controversy involving remarks made by Surekha’s daughter, Konda Sushmitha Patel, which were critical of Revanth Reddy and other Congress leaders.
Surekha had been facing pressure from the party leadership amid the controversy. Reports said the Congress high command had cleared the move, while Surekha had maintained that she would not voluntarily resign from the Cabinet.
Controversy Behind Konda Surekha’s Removal
The dispute is linked to comments made by Konda Sushmitha Patel, who reportedly criticised Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and raised political issues connected to the Parkal Assembly constituency.
The controversy subsequently developed into an internal Congress matter, with several party MLAs calling for action against Surekha. The Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee’s disciplinary process also reportedly recommended action against the minister.
The issue has highlighted growing tensions within the Telangana Congress and raised questions about internal discipline and differences between party leaders.
Surekha Says She Was Not Responsible for Her Daughter’s Remarks
Following the Cabinet decision, Konda Surekha expressed dissatisfaction with the action. She questioned why she was not consulted before the decision was taken and argued that she should not be held responsible for statements made independently by her daughter.
Surekha also reportedly questioned the circumstances surrounding the communication announcing the action and described the decision as unfair.
Revanth Reddy Government Faces Internal Political Pressure
The action against Surekha comes at a time when the Telangana Congress is dealing with internal disagreements involving senior leaders.
The controversy had already intensified in recent weeks. In August, Surekha even met Revanth Reddy amid the growing dispute, but the political tensions continued.
The latest decision demonstrates the Chief Minister’s willingness to take disciplinary action amid public disagreements involving members of his government and the Congress organisation.
Other Administrative Changes
The developments were not limited to Konda Surekha.
The Telangana government also moved against G Chinna Reddy, whose appointment as Vice Chairman of the Telangana State Planning Board was revoked. Gadwal Vijayalakshmi was subsequently appointed to the position, according to reports.
These decisions have added to speculation about a broader political and administrative reorganisation within Telangana.
What Happens Next?
Konda Surekha’s removal now depends on the formal constitutional process following the Chief Minister’s recommendation to the Governor.
Politically, however, the episode is likely to have wider implications for the Telangana Congress. The dispute has brought internal differences into public view and could influence relations among senior Congress leaders and their supporters in the state.
For Revanth Reddy, the decision also sends a strong message about party discipline and the government’s approach to public criticism from members associated with the ruling party.
The Konda Surekha episode is therefore more than a Cabinet change—it has become a significant test of internal unity within the Telangana Congress.
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