KTR Hits Back at Pawan Kalyan Over Regionalism Remarks, Defends Telangana’s Identity
Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president KT Rama Rao (KTR) has strongly responded to Pawan Kalyan’s recent statement comparing regionalism to terrorism. Asserting that Telangana certainly belongs to its sons of the soil, KTR questioned the Jana Sena Party leader’s understanding of regional movements and their historical significance. The sharp rebuttal came after Pawan Kalyan made controversial remarks suggesting that regionalism poses a greater threat than terrorism.
Drawing parallels to historical movements, KTR questioned whether the struggle led by Potti Sriramulu for a separate Andhra State from Madras should also be labeled as regionalism. He highlighted that Sriramulu sacrificed his life after a 58-day fast for the cause of a separate state. The BRS leader used this example to emphasize that regional aspirations have been a legitimate part of India’s political landscape and should not be dismissed or demonized.
The BRS working president also raised concerns about alleged economic discrimination against Telangana. He claimed that while the state is being criticized for regionalism, investments that should rightfully come to Telangana are being diverted to other states. Taking aim at the BJP-led central government, KTR questioned whether economic regionalism in the name of nationalism is acceptable, suggesting a double standard in how regional interests are treated.
In his statement, KTR made it clear that Telangana does not need lessons on patriotism and struggles from Pawan Kalyan. While expressing admiration for the actor and welcoming him as a brother, the BRS leader firmly stated that interference in Telangana’s politics would not be tolerated. He emphasized the need to maintain the state’s political autonomy and protect its interests from external influences.
KTR concluded his response by invoking the sacrifices made during the separate Telangana movement, questioning why the state should accept domination from others after all the struggles endured to achieve statehood. He stated that after all the sacrifices made for a separate Telangana, accepting domination from others again would be unacceptable to the people who fought for the state’s formation.
