bjp-lambasts-revanth-reddy-over-christmas-due-to-sonia-remark

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy triggered a political storm on Saturday after crediting Congress leader Sonia Gandhi’s “sacrifice” for the celebration of Christmas in the state, drawing sharp reactions from the BJP and the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).

 

Addressing a government-organised Christmas programme at Lal Bahadur Stadium in Hyderabad, Reddy said, “If people are celebrating Christmas in Telangana today, it is because of Sonia Gandhi’s crucial role and sacrifice behind it.” He also pointed out that December holds special significance for the state, marking both Sonia Gandhi’s birthday and the formation of Telangana.

 

Stressing his government’s commitment to communal harmony, the Chief Minister said the Congress administration respected all faiths and ensured that welfare schemes reached every community without discrimination.

 

During the address, Reddy announced that the Telangana government would introduce a new law in the upcoming Budget session to penalise those who insult or disparage any religion. He said existing laws would also be amended to impose stricter punishment, underlining the government’s resolve to curb communal hatred.

 

Also read: Congress will rule Telangana till 2034: CM Revanth Reddy

 

The Chief Minister further highlighted welfare initiatives aimed at minority communities, including measures to address issues related to graveyards and burial grounds, asserting that the state remained committed to equitable support for all religious groups.

 

The BJP reacted strongly, branding Reddy’s remarks as “sycophancy” and “political bootlicking”. In a post on X, the party mocked the statement, saying, “Next, we’ll be told the sun rises because of the Gandhi family. When flattery crosses all limits, everything is hijacked for political bootlicking.”

 

Leaders of the BRS also circulated videos of the Chief Minister’s remarks, criticising both their political tone and timing, and questioning the rationale behind attributing a widely celebrated religious festival to any individual or political figure.

 

The comments have fuelled a broader political debate in Telangana, with opposition parties accusing the Chief Minister of attempting to politicise religious celebrations for partisan gain.