Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has sparked controversy after remarks made during an election rally were widely condemned as offensive to Muslims. Addressing voters in the Jubilee Hills constituency ahead of the November 11 by-election, Reddy was reported to have said, “Congress hai toh Musalman hai, Congress nahi toh aap kuch nahi,” implying Muslims owe their political existence to the Congress party.
The statement drew criticism from opposition parties and Muslim groups, who called the comment insulting and demanded an apology. The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) accused the Congress of exploiting religious sentiments, while community leaders said the Chief Minister’s words reflected political arrogance.
Facing mounting backlash, Reddy clarified his remarks at another rally the following night, claiming his words were distorted. He asserted that he had always been a secular leader and that Congress governments had historically provided opportunities to minorities. “Congress means Muslims, and Muslims mean Congress,” he reiterated, adding that his party treats all communities equally.
The controversy comes as the Congress attempts to consolidate Muslim support in the by-election. The recent inclusion of former cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin in the state cabinet was seen as part of that strategy. Meanwhile, Reddy accused the BRS of aligning with the BJP and criticized Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy for opposing Azharuddin’s appointment.
Despite his clarification, the episode has fueled debate over the Congress party’s approach to minority outreach in Telangana’s politically charged climate.
