Kyathanpalli Poll Dispute Intensifies After Arrest of Ex-MLA Balka Suman

Political tensions escalated in Kyathanpalli of Mancherial district after police arrested former MLA and senior BRS leader Balka Suman amid the controversial municipal chairperson election process. He was taken into custody under heavy security and shifted to Srirampur police station , triggering protests from party supporters who attempted to block police movement, leading to heated confrontations and a tense law-and-order situation. Suman, along with four others, was produced before a magistrate and remanded to 14 days judicial custody . Police registered cases including obstructing officials , unlawful assembly, and assault on personnel during disturbances linked to the election proceedings, after which he was shifted to Adilabad jail .

The election process became contentious due to quorum disputes, political deadlock, and allegations that officials were prevented from conducting proceedings. Reports also mentioned tensions surrounding the movement of Minister Vivek Venkatswamy , further intensifying the situation. While BRS leaders claim their party and allies hold a clear majority in the municipal council, the ruling Congress government maintains that procedures were conducted lawfully.

K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) condemned the arrest, calling it politically motivated and alleging police acted without prior notice while attempting to influence the election outcome. Former minister T. Harish Rao also criticized the move, alleging misuse of police power and pressure tactics in municipalities facing hung councils, and demanded Suman’s immediate release along with intervention by the State Election Commission to ensure democratic conduct. The government rejected the allegations, accusing opposition leaders of creating unrest for political gain. The episode has intensified political friction across Telangana, highlighting growing tensions surrounding local body leadership elections.