Kavitha signals internal tensions with BRS party

Bharata Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLC Kalvakuntla Kavitha has issued a sharp warning to her own party colleagues, accusing certain leaders of orchestrating a smear campaign against her. Her remarks, made public on May 12, have intensified speculation about internal discord within the BRS, as the party appears increasingly distant from her recent political positioning.

In a strongly worded statement, Kavitha condemned what she called “malicious propaganda” by unnamed BRS leaders, stating that such actions not only target her personally but also damage the party’s credibility.

“Those spreading falsehoods about me are not just attacking me but harming the BRS itself. This must stop immediately,” she asserted.

Her comments follow a series of controversial moves, including her recent claim that there was “no social justice” in Telangana over the past decade—a period during which the BRS was in power. The remark has raised eyebrows within the party and is seen by some as a veiled critique of its governance record.

KTR remains silent

Analysts believe Kavitha’s increasingly outspoken stance is unsettling senior party leaders, especially as the BRS attempts to regroup and present a united front ahead of upcoming electoral challenges. Notably, the party’s top leadership, including Working President K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), has maintained a conspicuous silence on Kavitha’s recent actions, further suggesting internal distancing.

Sources indicate that party leadership is wary of her assertive rhetoric, particularly since her release from Tihar Jail in August 2024 following her arrest in the Delhi liquor policy case. Since then, Kavitha has adopted a combative tone, targeting both the Congress government and occasionally her own party’s policies and leadership strategies.

Adding to the intrigue are reports of strained relations within the BRS’s first family. Kavitha and KTR reportedly unfollowed their cousin, Siddipet MLA Harish Rao, on social media—fueling speculation about his potential departure from the party. While the BRS has dismissed these rumors, the social media activity and Kavitha’s latest comments have drawn increased attention to the party’s internal dynamics.

Observers suggest Kavitha’s warning may be a strategic move to consolidate her position within the BRS amid ongoing legal battles and political uncertainty. However, her combative posture risks alienating influential party figures at a critical juncture, as the BRS works to rebuild its image against the backdrop of a resurgent Congress led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

So far, the BRS has not issued an official response to Kavitha’s defamation allegations or clarified her standing within the party.