Article Today, Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s bold declaration—“I will be CM for the next ten years”—has sparked unrest within the Congress party. His statement, made during a recent public event, did not sit well with senior leaders. Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy, Congress MLA, openly criticised the remarks, calling them against the party’s principles and process. His reaction has reignited internal discontent in the state unit.
‘CM Post Not a Personal Empire’
Speaking at the foundation ceremony of the Young India Integrated Residential School in Jadcherla, Revanth asserted that he would lead the state till 2034 from Palamuru. In response, Rajgopal Reddy countered on social media, stating that the Congress high command alone has the authority to appoint the Chief Minister. He warned that treating the party as a personal empire would not be accepted by loyal Congress members.
Strong Counter from Rajgopal Reddy
Rajgopal Reddy’s post on X (formerly Twitter) gained widespread attention. In it, he said, “Chief Ministers are chosen as per the direction of the high command. No one should try to convert Telangana Congress into a private domain.” His response is seen as a direct challenge to Revanth’s growing influence in the party.
Ministerial Disappointment Behind the Criticism?
Political observers believe that Rajgopal Reddy’s criticism is also rooted in personal disappointment. He was reportedly expecting a ministerial berth in Revanth’s Cabinet but was left out. Sources suggest this exclusion has led to growing frustration. Moreover, other senior leaders too have begun expressing displeasure over the CM’s style of functioning.
Senior Leaders Feel Sidestepped
Revanth’s assertive stance has caused unease among several seasoned Congress leaders. Many of them had aspirations for top positions, including the CM post. His remarks are seen as a signal of centralising power and bypassing internal democratic processes. This has led to murmurs of dissent within the party rank and file.
Signs of Discord within Congress
The unfolding controversy points to a deeper divide in Telangana Congress. There is a rising perception among party veterans that Revanth is trying to consolidate authority without consultation. His unilateral comments may weaken party unity if left unaddressed. Analysts warn that such divisions could hamper the party’s functioning in the state.
Will the High Command Step In?
Rajgopal Reddy’s emphasis on the role of the high command underlines the core issue—authority versus autonomy in state leadership. As discontent grows, pressure may mount on the All India Congress Committee (AICC) to intervene. How the leadership manages this discord will determine the future stability of the Telangana unit.
A Test of Leadership and Unity
The ongoing episode raises crucial questions about Revanth Reddy’s leadership style and the balance of power in Telangana Congress. Whether this controversy escalates into a full-blown rebellion or gets resolved through dialogue remains to be seen. For now, the spotlight is firmly on the Congress high command’s next move.
