Telangana Congress faces criticism from its own supporters after fielding Naveen Yadav in the Jubilee Hills bypoll. NRI group alleges BJP–AIMIM influence and demands accountability from state leadership.

The Congress party’s choice of V. Naveen Yadav as its candidate for the Jubilee Hills by-election has triggered sharp criticism from within its own ranks, with sections of supporters accusing the Telangana leadership of falling under BJP–AIMIM influence.

In a Facebook post that gained traction among party loyalists, the Friends of Congress USA, a group of overseas supporters, alleged that the state unit has been “hijacked by outsiders” and no longer represents Congress ideals. The group criticised Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy’s leadership, claiming that long-time Congress members are being sidelined to favour those with questionable political links.

The post specifically objected to Naveen Yadav’s nomination, citing his past association with AIMIM and questioning why committed Congress workers were overlooked. The group also shared photographs purportedly showing Yadav alongside AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi to underscore their objections.

It further urged Labour Minister G. Vivek Venkatswamy to take a firm stance against BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar, accusing the latter of arrogance and poor treatment of senior party workers. The group reiterated its demand for Prabhakar’s removal, linking it to earlier controversies involving his comments about SC Welfare Minister Adluri Laxman Kumar.

Analysis:
The dissent within Telangana Congress highlights a deeper unease over candidate selection and internal discipline. As the Jubilee Hills bypoll nears, the leadership faces a crucial test — whether it can unify its fractured ranks or risk alienating its traditional support base. Political observers note that such internal rifts could weaken the Congress at a time when the ruling party needs cohesion to counter both the BJP and BRS narratives.