Rajiv Gandhi statue in Telangana

The Telangana Chief Minister, A. Revanth Reddy, has criticized K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) for suggesting the removal of a statue of Rajiv Gandhi, which is set to be unveiled in front of the state Secretariat. Reddy emphasized Rajiv Gandhi's contributions to technology and women's empowerment, defending the statue's placement while warning of social repercussions against BRS leaders if they attempt to alter it. In contrast, a group of intellectuals from Telangana has expressed their opposition to this decision, arguing that the existing statue of Telangana Talli symbolizes the region's cultural identity and heritage. They contend that replacing it with Rajiv Gandhi's statue undermines the historical significance of Telangana Talli, which represents the state's fight for self-respect and autonomy. The intellectuals have urged AICC leader Rahul Gandhi to reconsider the plan and suggested that Rajiv Gandhi's statue could be placed elsewhere, as it does not hold the same emotional weight for the people of Telangana. This conflict highlights the broader tensions surrounding cultural representation and identity in the state.