Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Working President K T Rama Rao has issued a legal notice to Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar, accusing him of making baseless and defamatory remarks linking Rama Rao to an alleged phone-tapping scandal during the previous BRS government. The notice, dated August 11, demands an unconditional public apology within seven days, threatening civil and criminal action if unmet.
Rama Rao’s legal counsel condemned Sanjay Kumar’s statements, made during an August 8 press conference, as “false, slanderous, and malicious,” aimed at tarnishing the BRS leader’s reputation for political gain. “Our client asserts that your allegations lack any proof and reflect a deliberate intent to damage his image and goodwill,” the notice stated, as released to the media on Tuesday. It further accused the Union Minister of exploiting his position to launch personal attacks for media attention and political mileage.
The controversy erupted after Sanjay Kumar, appearing as a witness before the Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing the phone-tapping case in Telangana, alleged that Rama Rao and former Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao were involved in illegal surveillance. Sanjay claimed his own phone was tapped using methods reserved for monitoring Maoist activities, escalating tensions between the two leaders.
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On August 8, Rama Rao fired back, demanding a public apology within 48 hours and warning of legal action. Sanjay Kumar dismissed the threat, calling it “monkey tricks” and daring Rama Rao to proceed, while alleging that the BRS leader was avoiding accountability. The heated exchange has intensified public and political scrutiny, with posts on X reflecting divided sentiments, some supporting Rama Rao’s legal move and others questioning his response.
The notice also demands that Sanjay Kumar refrain from further defamatory statements against Rama Rao and his family, warning of stricter legal consequences for any additional “wild or malicious” claims. Rama Rao’s legal team highlighted his unblemished record as a public servant, having served Telangana in various ministerial roles since the state’s formation, arguing that such accusations cause significant harm to his personal and political standing.
As the deadline approaches, the dispute underscores ongoing political rivalries in Telangana, with the phone-tapping case fueling debates over accountability and evidence. The outcome of this legal standoff could have significant implications for both leaders and the broader political landscape.
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