BJP MLA Raja Singh's remarks trigger protests, tension in Hyderabad Old City

HYDERABAD: A late night protest outside the Hyderabad CP's office here by activists of the All India Majlis Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) demanding action against BJP MLA Raja Singh kicked up a new political storm and caused tension in the Old City since late Monday. More than 100 MIM men were taken into preventive custody after a controversial video posted by Raja Singh making alleged objectionable comments stirred up the fresh row.

Given the volatility of the situation, a high alert has been sounded across Telangana. With more protests anticipated, security has been beefed up at Mangalhat, where the legislator resides. His personal security is also being reviewed in view of perceived threats to his life.

A wave of complaints were also lodged since late Monday night at several police stations demanding the arrest of the Goshamahal legislator, accusing him of making hate speeches, hurting the sentiments of a community.

Simultaneous protests were also staged outside the police stations of Bhavani Nagar, Dabeerpura and Rein Bazar. The AIMIM leaders and cadre, who resorted to the wave of protests, demanded the removal of a video by Raja Singh from social media platforms within 24 hours. They threatened with severe consequences if the video was not deleted.

Scores of the AIMIM workers were taken into preventive custody by the police who were immediately deployed in large numbers, given the volatility of the situation.

The protests continued even on Tuesday morning when AIMIM corporators lodged fresh complaints against Raja Singh at the Chandrayangutta Police Station before staging a sit-in outside the PS. They demanded that a case be registered against the BJP MLA invoking sections under the PD Act.