Bandi Sanjay's bicycle distribution drive sparks tension in Telangana BJP

HYDERABAD: A bicycle distribution rally organised by Karimnagar MP Bandi Sanjay has become the latest flashpoint in the ongoing power tussle within the Telangana BJP. While neither Sanjay nor Malkajgiri MP Eatala Rajender named each other directly, their pointed remarks left little doubt about the escalating factional war within the party.The flashpoint came after Sanjay's spirited rally in Husnabad a few days ago, during which he declared that internal factions must be wiped out, insisting that the only acceptable faction is the 'Modi group'. He also hinted that certain leaders had plotted to sideline him in his home turf of Karimnagar - a veiled swipe widely interpreted as targeting Eatala's camp. Since the rally, both groups have traded accusations.

Sanjay's supporters allege that Eatala's loyalists tried to derail the bicycle distribution programme by scheduling a parallel event in Huzurabad on the same day - forcing Sanjay to shift his rally to Husnabad. On the other hand, Eatala's camp expressed strong resentment over Sanjay's decision to involve local BRS MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy, Eatala's political rival, in the event, further stoking tensions.Party insiders say this is not just a clash of egos but a deeper battle for influence within the Telangana BJP. The strain between the two camps has been simmering ever since Sanjay was removed as state president. The situation further deteriorated when Eatala was overlooked for the post, and N Ramchander Rao was chosen instead - a decision that left both factions discontented and deepened the internal rift.