CM Revanth Reddy Faces Backlash Over Comments on Hindu Deities; BJP Slams Remarks as “Insulting”

Hyderabad: Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has triggered a fresh political controversy with his recent remarks on Hindu deities during an executive meeting of the Congress party. While emphasising that the Congress embraces diverse beliefs and mindsets, the Chief Minister drew an analogy comparing the plurality of thoughts within the party to the diversity of gods in Hinduism.

Reddy remarked that Hinduism has “many gods,” citing examples such as deities worshipped by vegetarians, non-vegetarians, and even those who marry more than once. He also referred to local traditions where toddy and non-vegetarian offerings are part of religious rituals.

The comments quickly sparked outrage from the BJP, which accused the Chief Minister of disrespecting Hindu beliefs and hurting religious sentiments.

Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar condemned the remarks in a detailed post on X, calling them “insulting” and claiming that the Congress harbours “deep-rooted hatred” toward Hindu culture. He alleged that the Congress “bends before the AIMIM” and reiterated old statements made by Revanth Reddy about Congress being a “Muslim party.”

Sanjay Kumar urged Hindus to “unite and assert their strength,” arguing that the CM’s statements reveal the Congress’s mindset. He said the BJP, under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, respects all religions and works with the principle of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas.”

Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy also criticised the CM, saying that his comments reflect “arrogance” and are influenced by his friendly ties with AIMIM leaders. He called upon the Hindu community in Telangana to recognise the alleged disrespect shown by the ruling party.

Both BJP leaders urged voters to “remove the arrogance of Congress” through their electoral power.

The Congress has not yet issued an official clarification on the CM’s remarks.