High drama as Task Force Police raids Minister Konda Surekha’s house in Hyderabad
HYDERABAD: Tension prevailed at Minister Konda Surekha’s residence in Hyderabad after Task Force police arrived late on Wednesday night. The officers reportedly went there to locate Sumanth, Surekha’s private Officer on Special Duty (OSD), who has been missing since Tuesday.
Surekha’s daughter Konda Sushmita reportedly argued with police, asking, “Why have you come to our house?” before tempers cooled.
According to sources, the police had received information that Sumanth was hiding at the minister’s house. The government had relieved him of his duties just a day earlier.
Political backdrop
The incident comes amid speculation of internal strife in the ruling party. Surekha recently alleged that “some Reddy leaders” were conspiring against her.
In the recent Medaram temple tender controversy, minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy was seen to have gained the upper hand, while minister Seethakka appeared to back him. Surekha skipped a ministerial programme at Medaram attended by both Ponguleti and Seethakka, later saying she missed it due to “work pressure.”
Reports suggest that Seethakka also lodged a complaint against Surekha with senior party leaders, prompting rumours that the Chief Minister was displeased with her — a claim Surekha has denied.
Meanwhile, the police action related to Sumanth has triggered further political discussion. Officials said that if Sumanth is arrested, “more details are likely to emerge.”
The police search at a sitting minister’s home has caused a major political storm across the state.
