Hyderabad: BRS leader Harish Rao accused the Congress government of targeting him after he raised land deals and alleged scams with evidence.
Harish Rao made the remarks on August 17 while responding to allegations linked to his political activities. He also accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy of using personal attacks against him.
According to Harish Rao, the government had previously raised questions around Kaleshwaram. He alleged that it had now shifted to claims involving occult worship and religious practices.
The Harish Rao allegations also targeted Revanth Reddy’s political record. He questioned the Chief Minister’s right to criticise him over his role in the Telangana movement.
Harish Rao said KCR’s struggle for Telangana helped Revanth Reddy reach the Chief Minister’s position. He also described KCR as a visionary who worked for different sections during his 10-year rule.
Meanwhile, Harish Rao cited statements from Congress leaders Rajagopal Reddy, Chinna Reddy and Pocharam. He said they had previously spoken publicly about Revanth Reddy’s conduct.
Harish Rao also rejected allegations that he had performed occult rituals. He said he had visited several temples as part of his religious beliefs and spiritual practices.
Harish Rao allegations cite Telangana movement record
Harish Rao said he visited the Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchi and Lord Venkateswara temple in Tirupati. He also recalled visits to Srisailam and Mookambika Amma temple in Kollur, Karnataka.
He claimed intelligence officials and police photographed him during his visit to Shivamogga airport. However, he alleged that Revanth Reddy later used the visit to make accusations against him.
Harish Rao challenged the government to produce evidence for its allegations. He also accused the Chief Minister of using religion for political purposes.
The BRS leader then highlighted his record during the Telangana movement. He claimed that 370 cases had been registered against him and recalled his time in Medak jail.
He said he slept on gravel for 48 hours during a rail roko protest. He also recalled giving up MLA positions and taking part in the Million March despite not knowing how to swim.
Harish Rao further recalled helping injured protesters during the Manukota incident. He said he also faced pellet attacks during protests at Osmania University.
In addition, he said he appeared before the Delhi High Court hundreds of times during the movement. He also highlighted seven electoral victories from Siddipet and said he secured majorities exceeding one lakh votes.
Harish Rao argued that Revanth Reddy lacked the moral standing to question his role in the Telangana movement. His remarks came after the Chief Minister strongly reacted to personal allegations against him.