A political tempest is being whipped up in Telangana following the attack on the office of MLC Chinthapandu Naveen, better known as Teenmaar Mallanna, by people reportedly belonging to the BRS leader and MLC K. Kavitha. The attack has raised hot debate and brought into focus the increasing rivalry between political voices and their detractors.
The attack occurred at the Q News office, where Mallanna was said to have been present. Eyewitnesses say that almost 50 people stormed into the buildings, allegedly provoked by Mallanna’s recent comments regarding Kavitha’s participation in the BC movement. His comments, described by many as offensive and derogatory, are said to have caused the scuffle.
As the situation swelled, Mallanna’s gunman was allegedly attacked, leading him to shoot five rounds into the air to break up the crowd. Initial observations indicate that two people might have been injured, although official medical reports are still awaited.
When the police came, the assailants had already left the area. The case has been lodged by the authorities and they are viewing CCTV footage to identify the perpetrators and arrest them. Mallanna was not harmed in the attack, but the office was badly damaged.
The incident has created more political heat in the state. Teenmaar Mallanna’s words, especially the language he used against Kavitha, have invited criticism from all sides. Most called his words misogynistic and in bad taste, especially since they were used against a woman in public life.
Simultaneously, the violent response has similarly been condemned across the board. Civil society voices are calling for restraint and a recognition that political differences must be settled by dialogue, not violence.
With investigations underway on both fronts — the attack and the comments that triggered it — political observers expect this issue to remain in the spotlight in the coming days.
