Why Did MoS Bandi Sanjay React to Rejected Padyatra Permission?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bandi Sanjay's padyatra was denied by election authorities.
- The BJP is determined to continue the campaign despite restrictions.
- Concerns over democratic freedoms have been raised.
- The incident reflects the tensions in Telangana's political landscape.
- Upcoming by-elections are critical for both major parties.
Hyderabad, Nov 6 (NationPress) The election officials have denied authorization for Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar's padyatra in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency, which was slated for Thursday evening.
This refusal from the returning officer left the Central minister visibly upset, prompting him to announce that he would continue with his campaign.
The planned padyatra in Borabanda was intended as part of the BJP's election strategy for the by-election on November 11.
The returning officer indicated in his directive that a representative from the BJP had sought permission for the padyatra in the Borabanda division from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m.
According to the order, "As the Assistant Commissioner of Police, Panjagutta reported that permission cannot be granted due to another event already slated for another party. Thus, the request is hereby denied."
This decision prompted a strong backlash from BJP leaders, who have vowed to proceed with the padyatra regardless.
Bandi Sanjay declared he would arrive in Borabanda this evening and was prepared to face any obstacles.
"Is this democracy or the rule of Razakars? Is this the governance of Telangana or control from Darussalam? Have the police been placed under the command of AIMIM?" Bandi Sanjay posted on ‘X’.
"The BJP's Jubilee Hills campaign in Borabanda received initial approval only to be abruptly denied at 1 p.m. today - what are they so terrified of? The voice of the people or the ascent of the BJP? Regardless of the permission, I will be in Borabanda. Let them attempt to stop me," he stated.
"The BJP has faced greater challenges and has never backed down. To every BJP karyakarta - gather in Borabanda with full strength this evening,” stated the MoS, adding that with the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, they will demonstrate what fearless politics truly entails.
BJP election in-charge Dharma Rao questioned the withdrawal of the permission by the police. He called on party members to assemble in large numbers at Borabanda for the meeting.
Dharma Rao emphasized that it was the police's duty to permit Bandi Sanjay's public meeting without any limitations.
The BJP leader insisted that the Election Commission should operate in an "impartial" manner.