Did a Telangana minister's 'buffalo' comment embarrass Congress?
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Synopsis
A controversial remark by a Telangana minister has sparked outrage within the Congress party. As tensions rise, one minister demands an apology while the other insists his words were misunderstood. What does this mean for the party ahead of crucial elections? Dive into the unfolding drama.
Key Takeaways
- Controversial remarks can damage party reputation.
- Importance of addressing caste sensitivities in politics.
- Internal party mediation can help resolve conflicts.
- Upcoming elections add pressure to political discourse.
- Public reactions shape political narratives.
Hyderabad, Oct 7 (NationPress) A Telangana minister's comment referring to a colleague as a 'buffalo' has caused significant embarrassment for the Congress party.
The remark was made by Transport and Backward Classes Minister Ponnam Prabhakar regarding Scheduled Castes Development and Tribal Welfare Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar, who was late to a campaign meeting in the Jubilee Hills Assembly constituency recently.
A clip of Prabhakar’s comment has since gone viral across social media platforms.
In response, Laxman Kumar expressed his discontent during a phone call with his supporters, claiming that Prabhakar's comments were derogatory due to his Scheduled Caste background and demanded an apology.
He indicated plans to lodge a complaint with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge, emphasizing that his ministerial position is a result of his Madiga caste affiliation (a Scheduled Caste).
“I don't engage in such arrogant discourse. I expected him to recognize his error. We will monitor the situation today and tomorrow. If no change occurs and Prabhakar persists, I will not be accountable for the fallout,” Laxman Kumar warned.
In contrast, Prabhakar refuted any allegations of insult, asserting that his comments were misinterpreted and were related to delays in confirming his flight ticket.
After Laxman Kumar’s video circulated on Tuesday, Prabhakar chose not to comment further, mentioning a conversation with Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee (TPCC) president Mahesh Kumar Goud. “I clarified the events of the Rahmat Nagar meeting to him. His decision is final,” Prabhakar added.
In an effort to mitigate potential embarrassment for the party, Mahesh Kumar Goud reportedly instructed Industries Minister D. Sridhar Babu to mediate between Prabhakar and Laxman Kumar.
The TPCC chief's intervention aims to alleviate any further discomfort for the party ahead of the upcoming by-election in the Jubilee Hills constituency and local body elections.
Point of View
It's vital to note that political remarks can have significant repercussions. This incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding caste-related comments in Indian politics, particularly within the Congress party. The focus must remain on respectful discourse to maintain party integrity and public trust.
NationPress
07/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the controversial remark made by the Telangana minister?
The Telangana minister referred to a colleague as a 'buffalo,' which has caused embarrassment within the Congress party.
Who is the minister that made the remark?
The remark was made by Ponnam Prabhakar, the Minister for Transport and Backward Classes.
How did Laxman Kumar react to the comment?
Laxman Kumar demanded an apology and accused Prabhakar of making derogatory comments due to his Scheduled Caste background.
What action is Laxman Kumar planning to take?
Laxman Kumar intends to file a complaint with AICC president Mallikarjun Kharge regarding the incident.
What is the significance of this incident for the Congress party?
This incident poses a risk to the Congress party's image ahead of upcoming by-elections and local body polls, highlighting the need for careful communication.
