BJP Minister Bandi Sanjay Sparks Controversy Over Skull Cap Comments Against Telangana CM Revanth Reddy

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay sparked controversy during a campaign event in Hyderabad's Borabanda on Thursday night. Speaking at a rally in the Jubilee Hills constituency, where a crucial by-election is scheduled for November 11, Sanjay criticized Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy for wearing a skull cap, declaring he would "rather cut his head off" than don religious headwear "for votes".

The BJP minister additionally charged the Congress administration with appeasing voters based on religious identity.

"I remain an unapologetic Hindu. I won't disrespect other religious traditions by pretending to perform namaz. Even prominent Muslim leaders like Azharuddin and those from MIM don't wear it. Yet Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and the Congress candidate did so merely to secure votes," Sanjay stated.

Sanjay further challenged Reddy by asking, "Does he possess the courage to request Azharuddin to recite 'Vakratunda Mahakaya'? Or accompany Owaisi to the Bhagyalakshmi temple to sing for Ammavaru to attract Hindu voters?"

The minister made a controversial appeal for community unity while leveling serious accusations against the ruling Congress party, claiming they were plotting to transform the state's demographic and political landscape. "The Hindu community must consider whether they want Telangana under Hindu governance or Islamic governance, whether the saffron flag should prevail or the green flag. Hindus in Telangana need to reflect on this. Under Ramchander Rao's leadership, we stand prepared to wage this battle for you. Provide us with your confidence and support, and we will assume responsibility for eliminating Congress and AIMIM here," he declared.

He further alleged that Congress and AIMIM aim to convert Telangana into an "Islamic state".

"AIMIM and Congress are collaborating toward this objective. If you desire tranquility in your personal lives and businesses, please remain united," he told attendees.

The BJP leader reiterated his longstanding criticism that minority votes are often consolidated by opposing parties. "Both BRS and Congress target minorities who vote collectively for one party. Why can't the majority community establish a single voting bloc? This would fundamentally change the political landscape," he urged.

He proceeded by dismissing critics and expressing confidence in grassroots support: "We disregard these fabricated surveys. If they're truly confident, why did they attempt to prevent my rally? This is the moment for us to stand together."

The Minister further encouraged voters to reject what he termed the 'Owai-Re tax' (referencing Owaisi and Chief Minister Revanth Reddy) and concluded his speech by singing a devotional song, urging people to support candidates "who worship gods and goddesses".

"Revanth Reddy has imported 40,000 burqas and is attempting to generate fraudulent votes. Election Commission, please monitor for voting fraud. They provide mixers and grinders to Muslim households while ignoring Hindus. They are purchasing votes for Rs 10,000 or Rs 20,000. Accept the money, but punish those parties afterward," he remarked.

Bandi Sanjay's comments immediately provoked criticism from opposition groups, who accused him of engaging in divisive, communal politics to gain advantage in the critical by-election.