Telangana CM Revanth Reddy vote theft
Revanth Reddy Calls for Unity Against Vote Theft in India
On Saturday, August 30, Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy delivered a powerful message at the memorial of Communist Party of India (CPI) stalwart and former MP Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy in Hyderabad. Addressing the gathering, he urged all like-minded political forces across the country to join hands in fighting against what he described as “Vote Chori” (vote theft), which he said threatens both the democratic spirit of India and the very Constitution.
His remarks resonated strongly at a time when concerns over voter roll manipulation, misuse of institutions, and challenges to democratic processes are growing louder nationwide.
A Call to Safeguard Democracy
CM Revanth Reddy emphasized that safeguarding democracy is not just a political responsibility but a moral one. He warned that the manipulation of the voter list and misuse of the Election Commission’s powers are clear attempts to consolidate political power at the expense of free and fair elections.
“Those in power at the Centre are using the Election Commission to serve their political interests. Votes of citizens opposing them are being deleted systematically. This is a grave danger to parliamentary democracy,” he declared.
According to Reddy, these actions not only undermine electoral integrity but also weaken citizens’ faith in institutions that were designed to be independent and impartial.
The Role of Communist Parties in People’s Struggles
The Chief Minister acknowledged the historic role played by communist parties in leading mass movements that have dethroned oppressive governments through long struggles and people’s mobilizations.
“Communism is not about studying ideology in libraries. It is about fighting strongly for people’s rights. The communist ideology needs to be propagated and carried forward,” Reddy stressed.
He highlighted that the Left’s contribution to India’s democratic journey cannot be ignored, noting how their persistent movements for workers, farmers, and marginalized communities helped shape India’s political discourse.
The Threat of Vote Deletion and Manufacturing of Votes
In his speech, Reddy expressed deep concern about recent trends in voter management. He alleged that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), in its bid to win elections, has adopted methods that manipulate voter rolls.
“The BJP has been deleting votes in states like Bihar to tilt assembly elections in their favor. At the same time, there have been shocking cases of generating nearly one crore votes within just four months. This is alarming and needs to be examined carefully by all democratic forces,” he cautioned.
By raising these points, the Telangana CM sought to rally opposition unity around the cause of electoral integrity, calling it a fight not for a single party but for the soul of Indian democracy.
Support for Rahul Gandhi’s Campaign Against Vote Theft
Revanth Reddy extended his support to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, who has been raising the issue of vote theft on various platforms.
“Rahul Gandhi is fighting against vote theft, but this is not a battle for one leader or one party alone. All like-minded forces must unite with him to safeguard India from the evil forces undermining democracy,” he urged.
By linking his message with Gandhi’s campaign, Reddy positioned himself and the Telangana Congress as key players in the larger opposition movement against alleged electoral manipulation by the ruling party at the Centre.
Warning Against Constitutional Change
The Chief Minister also raised alarm about what he sees as a deeper conspiracy—a planned attempt by the Union government to alter the Indian Constitution itself.
“If the Constitution, which protects our rights and guarantees equality, is changed to suit narrow political interests, the very future of India will be at risk,” he said.
This warning reflects a broader opposition narrative that has accused the BJP-led government of trying to centralize power and erode constitutional safeguards meant to protect diversity and federalism.
Tribute to CPI Veteran Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy
Revanth Reddy also used the occasion to remember and honor Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy, a veteran CPI leader who passed away earlier this year.
“Sudhakar Reddy pursued communist ideology until his last breath. He was among the rare leaders who tirelessly worked for the party and created social awareness among the masses,” Reddy said.
He recalled his personal association with the late leader and praised his dedication, simplicity, and commitment to the welfare of people.
Historical Context of Telangana’s Political Leadership
The CM placed Sudhakar Reddy’s contributions within the larger history of Telangana’s leadership. He recalled Suravaram Pratap Reddy and Burgula Ramakrishna Rao as first-generation leaders from Telangana who brought national recognition to Mahabubnagar and Nalgonda districts.
Later, figures like S Jaipal Reddy and S Sudhakar Reddy emerged as strong leaders of the second generation, carrying forward Telangana’s legacy of contributing significantly to national politics.
“In today’s context, there is a dire need for a leader with the strength and dedication of Sudhakar Reddy in national politics,” the CM remarked.
Government Recognition for Sudhakar Reddy’s Services
Revanth Reddy assured the gathering that the Telangana government would soon take a cabinet decision to formally recognize Sudhakar Reddy’s services.
He noted that, based on Sudhakar Reddy’s advice, the government had earlier renamed Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University in Hyderabad after Suravaram Pratap Reddy, honoring his contributions.
“Those who fight for the people will always be recognized and remembered forever in Telangana,” he assured.
The Larger Political Message
Beyond paying tribute to a communist veteran, Reddy’s speech carried a clear political message—a call for unity among opposition parties against what he called the systematic erosion of democracy under the BJP-led central government.
By emphasizing “Vote Chori,” he drew attention to the core principle of free and fair elections, which is fundamental to democracy. His appeal to unite echoed the need for coalition politics, where opposition parties set aside ideological differences to defend constitutional values.
The Legacy of People’s Movements in India
Revanth Reddy’s speech also acknowledged that India’s democratic progress has often depended on people’s struggles and street movements. From land reforms to trade union rights and from student protests to farmers’ agitations, these movements have historically checked state excesses.
His statement that communism is not limited to books but is about fighting for people’s rights underscores the importance of activist politics in shaping governance.
Opposition Strategy and 2024 Elections
Political observers believe that Revanth Reddy’s remarks are part of a larger strategy ahead of the 2024 general elections. Telangana’s Congress government wants to position itself as a bridge between traditional Left forces and mainstream opposition parties, creating a united platform against BJP dominance.
The emphasis on voter list manipulation and constitutional threats is also designed to mobilize youth, minorities, and marginalized communities who fear disenfranchisement.
Conclusion
Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy’s fiery speech at the memorial of CPI veteran Suravaram Sudhakar Reddy was more than a tribute. It was a clarion call for unity against “Vote Chori”, a warning about threats to the Constitution, and an appeal to revive people’s struggles in defense of democracy.
By honoring Sudhakar Reddy’s legacy and highlighting the contributions of Telangana’s past leaders, he reinforced the importance of principled leadership in turbulent times.
As India approaches a critical electoral season, his message underscores that the fight for democracy goes beyond party lines. It is about protecting the Constitution, empowering people, and ensuring that every vote counts.