Hyderabad, July 19: The BJP central leadership has stepped in to address the differences between Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar and Malkajgiri MP Etala Rajender, following reports of growing internal discord within the Telangana unit.
According to party sources, BJP Telangana affairs in-charge Abhay Patil held discussions with both leaders on Saturday as part of efforts to restore coordination and strengthen the party ahead of future political challenges.
After the meeting at the residence of Rajya Sabha MP K. Laxman, Bandi Sanjay and Etala Rajender greeted each other with an embrace, signalling an attempt to ease tensions.
The two leaders have reportedly been at odds for several years. Political circles have often linked their rivalry to leadership issues within the Telangana BJP, including speculation that Bandi Sanjay opposed Etala Rajender’s elevation as the party’s state president.
Both leaders also command significant influence in the undivided Karimnagar district. Their supporters have frequently been seen backing rival groups during local body elections, including Sarpanch and municipal polls.
The rivalry has also played out publicly, with indirect criticism from both sides on different occasions. Supporters of the two leaders have continued to engage in exchanges on social media, reflecting the ongoing internal divide.
The BJP leadership is understood to be concerned that prolonged factionalism could affect the party’s prospects in Telangana. The latest intervention is aimed at improving coordination between the two senior leaders and strengthening organisational unity.
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