BRS Hits Back at BJP Over MIM MLC Controversy and POCSO Case
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) General Secretary RS Praveen Kumar criticised BJP State president N Ramchander Rao in Hyderabad, demanding an explanation over the Bharatiya Janata Party's failure to condemn the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) case involving Bandi Bhageerath.
Responding to Ramchander Rao's claims that the BRS remained silent over the controversy involving MIM MLC Mirza Rahmath Baig, Praveen Kumar urged the BJP leader to avoid making reckless statements. He questioned why Ramchander Rao did not participate in state-wide protests when a minor girl was allegedly raped by the son of a BJP Union Minister, or demand the Union Minister's resignation.
Praveen Kumar pointed out key differences between the two cases, noting that in the matter concerning MIM MLC Mirza Rahmath Baig, no complaint had been lodged by the alleged victim. He stated that AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi directed the MLC to resign and suspended him from the party immediately after learning of the incident. Praveen Kumar added that if Owaisi possessed any videos or details regarding the alleged victim, he should take her to local police or the Director General of Police for an investigation.
Praveen Kumar said Rahmath Baig filed a complaint alleging that deepfake videos were fabricated to circulate false propaganda. In contrast, he noted that the victim in the Bandi Bhageerath case bravely lodged a formal police complaint despite facing threats, harassment, and allegations of a honey-trap.
Praveen Kumar claimed the BRS intervened to ensure the case was not diluted by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's administration, pursuing the matter until charges were escalated to serious sections and the accused was jailed.
Praveen Kumar also accused the BJP of maintaining silence when its own leaders faced allegations, referencing national cases such as Unnao and Bilkis Bano. He demanded the suspension of Bandi Sanjay and Sangappa, asserting that Ramchander Rao should address issues within his own party before questioning the BRS.
