Jogulamba Gadwal District is witnessing unrest after an incident on September 17 during the Praja Palana Dinotsavam flag-hoisting ceremony. Neeli Srinivas, Chairman of the Zilla Grandhalaya Samstha, and Doddappa, Chairman of the Alampur Market Yard, claimed they were insulted by MLA Bandla Krishna Mohan Reddy and some officials.
The event at the District Collectorate led to administrative actions, including suspensions of two officials and protests from the Bahujan community leaders.
Accusations of Humiliation
Reports indicate that the District Library Chairman was not allowed on stage during the ceremony. When he approached District Collector B.M. Santhosh to address this, officials allegedly mistreated him. Sri Raghavendra Goud, a Senior Assistant and Confidential Clerk, reportedly pushed the Chairman and made offensive comments in public.
Additionally, Police Constable K. Mallesh from K.T. Doddi Police Station was accused of physically handling the Chairman in front of witnesses, intensifying the situation.
Officials Suspended
On September 20, District Collector B.M. Santhosh suspended Raghavendra Goud under Rule 8(1) of the Telangana Civil Services (CCA) Rules, 1991 for misconduct and insubordination. Goud must stay at headquarters during suspension and get approval before leaving.
Also, Superintendent of Police T. Srinivasa Rao suspended Constable Mallesh, citing his actions as gross misconduct. Mallesh will receive a subsistence allowance during the suspension, which is up for review after three months.
Public Protests and Demands
Protests erupted in Gadwal with leaders from BC, SC, ST, and Minority communities besieging the Collectorate. They accused MLA Bandla Krishna Mohan Reddy of using abusive language against the Library and Market Yard Chairmen. Protesters claimed the MLA showed caste bias and demeaned Bahujan leaders.
Neeli Srinivas and Doddappa alleged the MLA repeatedly insulted them publicly, suppressing BC leadership. Protesters demanded strict actions against both the MLA and involved officials to protect Bahujan dignity.
A formal representation was submitted to the District Collector and Superintendent of Police for swift justice.
Widespread Participation
The protests included many local leaders from Gadwal and Alampur and representatives from various community organizations. They pledged to continue their fight until justice is served and accountability is ensured.
Administrative Response
Officials emphasized that suspensions are temporary, pending detailed investigations into the misconduct allegations. The incident underscores the government’s intolerance for indiscipline at public events, yet political tensions remain high in Gadwal, with Bahujan groups demanding tougher measures against elected officials.
