A new political controversy has erupted in Telangana ahead of Christmas. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has strongly objected to Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy mentioning Congress leader Sonia Gandhi while referring to Christmas celebrations in the state. The BJP accused the Congress of flattery and claimed that the remarks amounted to an insult to the Christian community.

Addressing a Christmas celebration organised by the Telangana government at Lal Bahadur Shastri Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy stressed the need to respect all religions. He said his government would take strict action against those who attempt to disturb religious harmony.

In his address, the Chief Minister said, “We will bring a new law in the Assembly to punish those who insult other religions. Along with this, existing laws will be amended to ensure strict action against those who spread religious hatred.” He added that the government had already initiated action against individuals involved in hate speech and religious attacks.

Reacting to Revanth Reddy’s remarks, BJP leaders said it was inappropriate to give credit to a political leader at a religious event like Christmas. The party alleged that the Congress was using religious programmes for political gains, hurting the sentiments of the Christian community.

The Congress, however, maintained that the Chief Minister’s statement was aimed at strengthening religious harmony and mutual respect, and not at insulting any community.

The controversy has heated up Telangana’s political climate ahead of the festival, with indications that political sparring over the issue may intensify in the coming days.