Hyderabad: Former BRS MLA Patnam Narender Reddy was detained on Wednesday in connection with a violent clash in Vikarabad district, Telangana, during a public hearing on land acquisition for a proposed industrial project, according to police sources. Reddy is currently being questioned about his alleged involvement in inciting the violence.
The incident, which occurred in Lagacherla village on Monday, escalated when villagers protested against the acquisition of their lands for pharmaceutical companies. The situation turned violent, with villagers reportedly attacking officials, including Vikarabad district collector Prateek Jain and other top bureaucrats, during the public consultation meeting.
Authorities have arrested 16 individuals so far for their roles in the attack. Reports suggest that Suresh, a close associate of Patnam Narender Reddy, allegedly incited the crowd to attack the officials. Evidence indicates multiple phone calls between Suresh and Reddy just before the clash, further implicating the former MLA in orchestrating the incident.
The violent episode has sparked outrage across Telangana, with the ruling Congress and the opposition BRS trading blame over the deteriorating law and order situation. The incident has also led to accusations against Patnam Narender Reddy, with authorities alleging that he was linked to those who orchestrated the attack on the district officials.
In response to the violence, police have filed cases against several BRS leaders. The district authorities have detained over 55 people and suspended internet services to prevent further escalation.
Despite reports of an assault, Vikarabad district collector Prateek Jain has denied being physically attacked by villagers. Jain visited Kondagal village to engage in talks with farmers concerned about the proposed Pharma City project and reassured them of addressing their grievances.
“Some mischief-makers conspired to create trouble, but I was neither attacked nor manhandled,” Jain told reporters. However, during the clash, special officer Venkat Reddy sustained serious injuries, and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Srinivas was also assaulted while trying to protect him.
A local court has remanded 16 farmers into custody for their involvement in the attack. The police continue to investigate the incident, focusing on the alleged role of key political figures, including Patnam Narender Reddy. Authorities are also probing how the situation spiraled into violence during what was supposed to be a peaceful public hearing.
The incident has heightened tensions in the region, highlighting the delicate balance between development projects and local community rights. With the political landscape in Telangana heating up, this case is likely to have far-reaching implications.
