Former Telangana minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) has slammed Rahul Gandhi and the Congress government in the state over a demolition drive in Hyderabad, alleging that it took place while people were still inside the structures.
The Hyderabad civic body’s anti-encroachment operation in the city’s Kukatpally area removed shops built on footpaths along two stretches, drawing severe criticism from affected residents and political leaders alike.
Sharing a viral video showing two women trapped inside their house as it was being bulldozed, BRS Working President KT Rama Rao (KTR) called the incident “insensitive and inhuman”.
Tagging Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on social media, KTR remarked, “If this were to happen to your own family, will you be able to accept it, @RahulGandhi Ji? Only the most insensitive and inhuman government can do this! Who will be held responsible for their physical safety?”
Telangana is ruled by the Revanth Reddy-led Congress government.
KTR also took a swipe at Rahul Gandhi, adding, “Ek Aur Nazara Mohabbat Ki Dukaan Ka” (Another example of the shop of love).
Residents and shop owners in the area criticised the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) officials for conducting the demolition without prior notice. Women affected by the drive expressed their frustration, with some demanding the return of BRS leader KCR to address such issues.
“We were not given time to remove our goods. The authorities are destroying our livelihoods with their arrogant attitude,” said a shopkeeper.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety of residents during such operations. Critics questioned whether proper procedures were followed, as the video highlighted a lack of coordination that could have led to potential harm to residents.
The GHMC, however, maintained that the operation was part of an ongoing effort to clear encroachments and improve pedestrian access.
