HYDERABAD: Food Corporation Chairman M.A. Faheem has lodged a formal complaint with the Cyber Crime police over a forged extortion letter that went viral on social media, allegedly linking him to threats made using the name ‘HYDRAA’. Faheem dismissed the letter as fake and accused political rivals of orchestrating a smear campaign.
On Tuesday, a letter purportedly from the Ameenpur Welfare Association, addressed to Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, circulated widely online. It claimed that Faheem had demanded a large sum of money and threatened to demolish homes using ‘HYDRAA’ officials if the demands were not met. The letter alleged that Faheem used the names of the Chief Minister, ministers, and other leaders to exert pressure.
Speaking to the media, Faheem strongly denied the allegations and stated that there was no evidence linking him to the letter or any threats. He claimed the letter was part of a political vendetta, allegedly backed by the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), aimed at tarnishing his image and that of the Congress government.
“The letter is completely fake. It was made viral deliberately to defame me. I have never done anything that would bring disrepute to the Chief Minister or the government,” Faheem asserted. He further stated that he had filed a complaint not only with the Cyber Crime authorities but also planned to escalate it to the Director General of Police (DGP) and the HYDRAA Commissioner.
Police investigations have since confirmed that the letter is fabricated. Cyber Crime authorities have launched an inquiry into its origin and circulation.
HYDRAA Commissioner Ranganath also responded on social media platform X, stating that a preliminary inquiry would be conducted and clarity would be provided in two to three days. He confirmed that Faheem had approached him and requested a formal investigation into the allegations.
Faheem concluded by saying he is aware of those behind the campaign and warned that he would publicly name them if necessary. “I have some information on who is responsible. If needed, I will reveal their names,” he said, demanding strict action against those spreading falsehoods online.
