T’gana BJP chief accuses CM Revanth Reddy of appeasing muslims in Jubilee Hills bypoll

Telangana BJP president N. Ramchander Rao on Thursday accused Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy of engaging in Muslim appeasement to win votes in the upcoming Jubilee Hills Assembly bypoll scheduled for November 11.

Ramchander Rao claimed that Revanth Reddy, seen wearing a cap during his campaign, has effectively turned into “Revanth Uddin” to attract support from the state’s 20% Muslim population. “His comments are clearly aimed at vote bank politics. Treating Muslims only as a vote bank actually hurts their dignity,” Ramchander Rao said.

He further alleged that both the Congress and BRS are ignoring the needs of the majority Hindu population, focusing instead on winning votes from the minority community. “The focus should be on ensuring education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and housing for all, not just on political rhetoric,” Ramchander Rao added.

Meanwhile, addressing a campaign rally, CM Revanth Reddy criticised Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy for opposing the induction of former cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin into the Council of Ministers. He asked, “What is Kishan Reddy’s problem if a leader from the minority community is made a minister?” Revanth Reddy also highlighted Congress’ efforts for minorities, saying, “Congress has provided many opportunities to minorities. Congress means Muslims, and Muslims mean Congress.”

The bypoll was necessitated after the death of BRS MLA Maganti Gopinath in June due to a heart attack. The BJP has fielded Deepak Reddy, while Gopinath’s widow, Sunita, is contesting for the BRS. The Congress candidate is receiving support from the AIMIM, led by Asaduddin Owaisi.

Political analysts note that while Hindus form the majority in Jubilee Hills, the 20% Muslim vote can be decisive in a closely contested bypoll. Historically, communal appeals have influenced voting patterns in Hyderabad, especially in minority-majority areas, but analysts caution that identity politics alone does not guarantee victory. Parties that focus solely on appeasing one community risk alienating others and increasing polarization.

With the bypoll just days away, all parties are trying to balance outreach to different communities while highlighting development and governance issues. Voter response to both identity-based appeals and performance promises could determine the winner of this closely watched contest.