Harish Rao, Kaushik Reddy accused of Model Code violations in Jubilee Hills bye-poll
HYDERABAD: Two separate complaints have been lodged with the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) of Telangana, alleging serious violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) legislators Harish Rao and Padi Kaushik Reddy during the Jubilee Hills bye-election campaign.
In a letter dated November 10, 2025, P. Rajesh Kumar, Chairman of the Election Commission Coordination Committee, accused MLA Harish Rao of organising a press conference outside the CEO’s office during the 48-hour silence period before polling. The complaint stated that the event included political comments and criticism of rival parties, constituting a clear breach of the Election Commission’s restrictions on campaigning and public statements during the no-campaign window.
‘Press meet outside CEO office breaches silence period’
Rajesh Kumar said the act violated multiple provisions of the MCC, which bars campaigning, publicity or statements influencing voters within 48 hours of polling. “Such activity disrupts a level playing field and undermines the integrity of elections,” he wrote, seeking immediate action by the election authorities.
‘Derogatory depiction of CM at BRS roadshow’
In a separate representation to the CEO on the same date, the committee alleged that MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy had used derogatory language and visuals targeting Chief Minister Revanth Reddy during a roadshow at Yousufguda on November 9, 2025. According to the complaint, a cut-out depicted the CM in a manner resembling “Narakasura”, while Reddy allegedly referred to him as “Hydrasura”. The petitioner argued that these actions promoted hatred and violated Section 123(4) of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which prohibits statements fostering enmity or insulting opponents.
The committee urged the CEO to initiate prompt inquiry and consider disqualification of the MLA if violations are proved. It said such conduct “insults constitutional officeholders and endangers communal harmony”, calling for “urgent intervention to protect voters and uphold Telangana’s electoral dignity”.
