BJP MP Raghu Nandan Rao criticizes Congress-MIM alliance

BJP MP Raghu Nandan Rao has accused Congress and the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (MIM) of forming an alliance in the Jubilee Hills by-election, alleging that the two parties have joined forces only to secure votes for the upcoming GHMC elections. He claimed that MIM has already reached a secret understanding with Congress to give the mayoral post in the December GHMC elections, and this by-election is part of that plan. Raghu Nandan Rao questioned why MIM, which is active in several state assembly elections, is not contesting in its traditional stronghold of Hyderabad.

Potential consequences if MIM wins mayoral post

Rao warned that if MIM wins the mayoral seat in Hyderabad, it could create a dangerous situation. He cited the case of MIM winning the mayoral post in Bhainsa, where residents in Hindu colonies reportedly faced water shortages, suggesting similar issues could arise in Hyderabad. He urged professionals and software engineers in Jubilee Hills to recognize that voting for Congress could effectively mean voting for MIM.

Graveyards raise questions

Raghu Nandan Rao also raised concerns about new graveyards being constructed overnight in Jubilee Hills, claiming that these were being done out of fear of MIM. He appealed to the public, noting that after witnessing a decade of BRS rule and 20 months of Congress governance, it was time to give BJP a chance.

Criticizes exploitation of Muslim voters

Raghu Nandan Rao further argued that Muslim voters should not be treated as pawns in the Congress-MIM alliance. He claimed that Congress has done little for the Muslim community and is merely using their votes as a “vote bank.”

Congress’s strategy

Winning in Jubilee Hills requires Congress to secure Muslim votes, which are considered crucial. Analysts point out that MIM, which had previously cooperated with BRS, now appears to have a tacit understanding with Congress. Examples include Congress not challenging an MIM-owned college in Hyderabad. In past elections, Congress fielded a minority candidate, Azharuddin, to prevent Muslim votes from going entirely to MIM. This time, with a Hindu candidate from BRS in the race, Congress seems to be strategizing to consolidate Muslim votes in its favor. The outcome of this strategy will be closely watched.