Kishan Reddy Terms Makthal BJP Candidate’s Death a ‘Jungle Raj’ Sign

The death of BJP municipal election candidate Erukala Mahadevappa in Makthal of Narayanpet district ahead of the Telangana municipal polls has triggered a major political controversy, with the BJP alleging intimidation by the ruling Congress and demanding an impartial investigation.

Mahadevappa, who contested from Ward No. 6, died by suicide on the final day of campaigning. His family alleged that he faced sustained harassment and political pressure from local rivals since filing his nomination, leading to severe mental distress. The incident occurred just a day before polling, intensifying political tensions in the state.

BJP state president N. Ramchander Rao described the death as the result of “ mafia-style threats ” and accused Congress leaders of coercive politics. After visiting the hospital and meeting the family, he said the issue was raised in the Rajya Sabha . The BJP demanded restoration of the original FIR , a transparent post-mortem, and strict action against those responsible, as well as against police officials accused of tampering with the complaint. The party also announced ₹10 lakh ex-gratia assistance to the family.

BJP state chief spokesperson N. V. Subhash alleged that despite repeated complaints, the police failed to act, raising doubts over their neutrality. He demanded an independent probe, calling the incident part of election-time intimidation.

At the national level, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy made an emotional statement in Parliament, calling Mahadevappa’s death “not merely an isolated incident but a chilling indictment of the political climate in Telangana.” Referring to the BJP leader as a young tribal representative who stepped forward through democratic means, he said the episode reflected a “jungle raj” atmosphere under Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy , where grassroots democracy was under strain. He said the death highlighted the fear and insecurity faced by political workers at the local level.

Police have registered a case in connection with Mahadevappa’s death and said investigations are underway, though political motives have not been officially confirmed. While the BJP termed the incident a threat to democracy, an official response from the Congress party is awaited.