Denied berth, Rajgopal Reddy goes silent

Munugodu: Local MLA Komatireddy Rajgopal Reddy was once again denied a ministerial position, leading to deep disappointment among his supporters. Although he was not included in the PCC Committees earlier, his followers were hopeful that he would certainly be included in the cabinet this time. However, his name was once again absent from the final list of ministers.

Rajgopal Reddy had previously expressed interest in holding a cabinet post, even aspiring to be the Home Minister. When it became clear he was being overlooked, he remarked that a senior leader from his district was deliberately blocking his chances. His expectations were dashed once again, reigniting the discussion of internal party politics.

From the undivided Nalgonda district, two Reddy community leaders—Komatireddy Venkat Reddy (his own brother) and Uttam Kumar Reddy—are already part of the cabinet. It is believed that the party high command avoided including another leader from the same community and district to prevent backlash about regional and caste favouritism.

Rajgopal Reddy, a senior politician with experience as an MLA, MLC, and MP, had left the BJP to rejoin Congress before the recent elections, along with former MP Vivek Venkatswamy. Both leaders were reportedly promised ministerial positions by the Congress leadership. While Vivek was appointed as a minister, Rajgopal was overlooked, raising questions within the party. Local political dynamics, especially having two ministers from the same community and district, worked against him. There is also speculation that a letter from senior Congress leader Jana Reddy, insisting on representation for Ranga Reddy or Hyderabad districts, played a role in blocking Rajgopal’s appointment. Despite previous criticisms, Rajgopal Reddy eventually aligned with party leadership and worked actively. He was confident about getting a portfolio, particularly Home or Education, based on his statements and body language over the past few months. But with his name missing from the final list, his hopes were shattered.

Meanwhile, a disappointed Rajgopal Reddy has gone underground and was not available to party members. There are rumors that he might be offered the Chief Whip position or possibly the post of Working President of the party. However, the Chief Whip position remains unassigned as of now. It remains to be seen whether he will accept such a role or take a different political path.