Hyderabad: A Congress faction clash erupted in Tungaturthi constituency of Suryapet district on Tuesday. Supporters of rival Congress leaders allegedly attacked each other with stones and sticks. Police intervened to disperse the groups, while some police vehicles were damaged during the violence.
The clash involved supporters of Tungaturthi MLA Mandula Samuel, MP Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and former minister Ramreddy Damodar Reddy. Internal differences within the local Congress unit had reportedly intensified in recent weeks.
A section of Congress workers had called for a “Chalo Gandhi Bhavan” protest against the MLA’s functioning. Meanwhile, the MLA’s supporters allegedly stopped them at Arvapally. The confrontation soon turned violent.
Congress faction clash follows appointment row
According to party workers, resentment has been growing over the distribution of organisational posts. Further, several senior Congress leaders alleged that the party had sidelined long-time cadre. They claimed the leadership had given preference to leaders who recently joined the party.
The protesters also expressed dissatisfaction over the appointment of mandal presidents. They alleged that the MLA acted unilaterally while allocating party positions.
Meanwhile, political observers said similar tensions between long-time party workers and new entrants have surfaced in several constituencies after the Congress formed the government. They believe the party leadership must address the issue before it spreads further.
Finally, the developments in Tungaturthi have drawn attention within the Congress. The internal differences come as the party prepares for future electoral battles in the state.