Hyderabad: In a fresh setback for the BJP ahead of the Jubilee Hills by-election, party leader and former Vengalrao Nagar corporator Kilari Manohar joined the Congress on Wednesday. His defection marks a deepening rift within the BJP’s local unit, with multiple leaders exiting in recent weeks.
Manohar, who also served as BJP Hyderabad Central district vice president and enjoys considerable support in the constituency, belongs to the Kamma community. He stated that he was impressed by the Congress government’s administrative approach and felt compelled to extend his support.
Recalling past incidents, Manohar said Congress candidate V. Naveen Yadav and party leader Chinna Srisailam Yadav stood by him during a time of political attacks, including one linked to the late MLA Maganti Gopinath. He described his move as a gesture of gratitude and trust.
Manohar formally joined the Congress in the presence of Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao. PCC vice president Bandi Ramesh welcomed him with a party scarf. Senior leader Bikkasani Nageswara Rao and others also attended the joining ceremony.
This defection follows the recent exit of Sheikpet corporator candidate Charka Mahesh, indicating growing discontent within the BJP’s local ranks.