-The Rise and Fall of a Controversial Health Official
Article Today, Hyderabad:
Dr. Gadala Srinivasa Rao, who once held the influential post of Director of Public Health in Telangana, turned the entire health department into what many critics call his personal kingdom. With the unwavering support of then-Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), Dr. Rao gained unparalleled control and prominence, even overshadowing senior IAS and IPS officers during the COVID-19 crisis.
COVID Turned the Tide in His Favour
Although KCR once considered sidelining him, the tide changed during the pandemic. Rao was thrust into the limelight, becoming the sole face of government health updates, sidelining even then Health Minister Etela Rajender. While other states entrusted COVID responsibilities to Health Commissioners, Telangana uniquely placed full charge in the hands of its Public Health Director—Dr. Rao. This unusual move granted him excessive authority, which many believe he used to build his influence and personal network.
No Proper Rank, But Supreme Authority
Interestingly, Dr. Rao, who didn’t hold even the rank of a District Medical & Health Officer (DMHO) earlier, was treated as if he were one. After the Congress came to power, he was transferred to a lower post in Mahabubabad district, officially marking his demotion.
A Political Game Under the Mask of a Trust
However, Dr. Rao’s ambitions extended beyond the health department. He set up the GSR Trust, named after his father, allegedly collecting large donations from corporate hospitals and prominent personalities. Using this trust, he conducted job fairs and health camps, particularly focusing on the Kothagudem constituency, which he eyed for the 2023 Assembly elections under the BRS banner.
Using Official Position for Political Campaigning
While still holding an official post, he openly criticized the sitting MLA of that area—a move that sparked controversy. Nevertheless, buoyed by political backing, he used the health department office in Hyderabad as a campaign base. Reports suggest that staff working under him were made to support his political activities in Kothagudem.
Ticket Denied, but Not Political Drama
Despite all this preparation, he was denied a BRS ticket in the 2023 elections. After the Congress came to power, he attempted to switch sides. He met party working president Mahesh Kumar Goud, applied for a Congress ticket from Khammam for the 2024 parliamentary elections, and even posed as if he had officially joined the party—reportedly to protect his government post and escape scrutiny.
Retirement Before Scandals Could Surface
Eventually, fearing exposure of irregularities and departmental inquiries, he opted for voluntary retirement. There are criticisms that even though vigilance inquiries were pending against him, his retirement was approved without resistance.
“From Gun to Stethoscope”: Words That Sparked Backlash
In another incident, he claimed that he was once on the path to becoming a militant, but turned to medicine instead. These dramatic declarations attracted media attention and criticism alike.
Worshipping a Self-Proclaimed Goddess
Dr. Rao also visited a woman in Kothagudem who was self-proclaimed as a divine being, participating in her rituals and even circling around her in reverence—videos of which went viral on social media.
Political Patronage Enabled Unchecked Ambitions
Insiders from the BRS party later revealed that KCR had promised him a political role, and this tacit approval is what allowed his open political maneuvering while still in government service.
Coming Up: Shocking Allegations of Harassment
In next edition, a sensational exposé will be published regarding allegations of temporary appointments made during the COVID-19 period. Several women employees reportedly accused of harassment. These women have taken their complaints to senior officials, leading to strong reprimands against that top official. Full details and testimonies will follow in the next news article.
