Hyderabad, September 2, 2025 –
The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) is facing a fresh storm after senior leader Kavitha made sensational allegations against two key figures within the party – Harish Rao and Santosh Rao. Her comments, described as a “political bomb,” have triggered intense debate within the party ranks and could potentially deepen internal rifts.
Kavitha Targets Harish Rao and Santosh Rao
In a surprising move, Kavitha directly accused Harish Rao and Santosh Rao of being responsible for large-scale corruption, particularly in connection with the controversial *Kaleshwaram Project. While allegations against Santosh Rao have surfaced earlier, this is the *first time Harish Rao has faced such serious charges from within his own party.
Kavitha clarified that corruption indeed took place, but insisted her father, former Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), was not responsible. Instead, she alleged that Harish Rao and Santosh Rao were the ones accountable, pointing out that this was precisely why KCR did not assign the irrigation ministry to Harish during his second term.
BRS Moves Quickly to Contain Damage
The remarks instantly created a stir within BRS, coming at a time when the party is already under pressure due to the Kaleshwaram Commission report and demands for a CBI inquiry. To counter the growing unease, the party’s official social media handles released a video praising Harish Rao’s contributions, sending a clear signal that the leadership does not endorse Kavitha’s comments.
Political analysts believe this quick reaction reflects the BRS leadership’s fear of internal mistrust spreading among senior leaders, which could destabilize the party further.
Strategic Silence on KTR
Interestingly, Kavitha refrained from making any comments on *K. T. Rama Rao (KTR), her cousin and another key figure in the party. Her selective targeting of Harish Rao and Santosh Rao is being seen as a calculated political move. Some insiders suggest that her remarks may have been influenced by *Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s strategies, given the timing of ongoing corruption discussions.
Political Implications for BRS
The family dynamics within KCR’s political circle have always played a role in shaping BRS’s direction. While Harish Rao has generally kept away from internal family politics, Kavitha’s decision to bring his name into the corruption debate marks a significant shift.
Her statements are seen as an attempt to protect KCR’s legacy while simultaneously weakening those she perceives as political rivals within the party. With a possible CBI probe looming over the Kaleshwaram Project, Kavitha’s comments could have long-term implications, both for the party’s unity and its public image.
What’s Next for BRS?
For now, the BRS leadership is trying to project unity and downplay Kavitha’s remarks. However, if internal mistrust deepens among top leaders, the situation could spiral into a full-blown crisis. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Kavitha’s allegations will remain a political outburst or turn into a defining moment for the party’s future.