Hearing on KTR's defamation case against Minister Konda Surekha adjourned to October 18

HYDERABAD: The Nampally Special Magistrate Court conducted a hearing on Monday regarding the defamation case filed by BRS Working President K Taraka Rama Rao against Minister Konda Surekha. The court adjourned the case to October 18, when the statements of KTR and four key witnesses, including Balka Suman, Satyavathi Rathod, Tula Uma, and Dasoju Sravan, will be recorded.

The case stems from allegations that Minister Konda Surekha made defamatory remarks that tarnished KTR's reputation. In his petition, KTR stated that the minister's comments were baseless and made purely for political gain without any supporting evidence. He requested the court to take criminal action against Surekha under Section 356 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

KTR had previously issued legal notices to Surekha, demanding a public apology within a week. When the deadline passed without an apology, KTR proceeded with the defamation suit. He detailed in the petition that he has served as an MLA five times and as a minister for over nine years, dedicating his efforts to the state's welfare and securing numerous national and international awards.

KTR also included media reports, social media posts, and TV broadcasts related to Surekha’s remarks as evidence, submitting them to the court in a pen drive along with newspaper clippings and photographs. He highlighted past incidents where Surekha had faced criticism for similar statements, including warnings from the Election Commission. KTR urged the court to view the comments as part of a calculated conspiracy and requested strict legal action against the minister.

The court will further examine the case on October 18, when key witness statements will be recorded.