BJP Municipal Election Candidate Erukali Mahadevappa died by suicide on Tuesday—just one day before local body polls scheduled across Telangana—prompting political tension and a public outcry from his party. The incident occurred in Maktal Municipality, part of Narayanpet district, and has become a flashpoint in the closing hours of campaigning ahead of elections in 116 municipalities and seven corporation areas.

Mahadevappa, a 46-year-old tribal social activist and the BJP’s nominee for Ward 6, was found hanging at his residence late Monday night, according to police reports and initial local accounts. A post-mortem examination has been ordered as authorities continue their inquiry into the tragic death.

The Bharatiya Janata Party swiftly condemned the circumstances surrounding his death, alleging that sustained threats and intimidation from political opponents contributed to Mahadevappa’s decision to take his own life. In an official statement, the party accused the ruling Congress and specific regional leaders of creating a hostile environment that “suffocated grassroots democracy,” and demanded accountability while calling for protests.

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BJP workers and leaders rallied at the Telangana Director General of Police (DGP) office in Hyderabad to demand action and an independent investigation. Some protesters were detained by police after attempting to force entry into the office, according to reports. State BJP president N Ramchander Rao reiterated accusations against Congress figures, including alleging pressure from the camp of the state’s Sports Minister, and even called for the minister’s dismissal.

The Congress party has not issued an immediate official response to the BJP’s allegations regarding harassment or coercion. The municipal elections, seen as an important test of political strength ahead of larger polls, are set to proceed on Wednesday, February 11, despite the controversy.

The death underscores heightened political tensions in Telangana’s local elections, where parties are already trading fierce accusations over governance, electoral management, and campaign conduct. National political institutions have been drawn into the debate—most recently causing an uproar in the Rajya Sabha after BJP lawmakers raised the issue as part of broader allegations of coercion in the run-up to polling.

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