A major controversy erupted after a video surfaced on social media showing BJP candidate from the Hyderabad Lok Sabha constituency, Kompella Madhavi Latha, gesturing to shoot an arrow, purportedly in the direction of a mosque. The incident took place during a Ram Navmi procession near Siddiamber Bazaar Junction in old Hyderabad, riding atop an open vehicle organised by BJP MLA T Raja Singh.

To prevent communal tensions, the mosque was draped in white cloth during the festivities. Latha, who had been selected by the BJP to challenge AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi from the seat, addressed the controversy on X, seeking to clarify a video that had circulated in the media.

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“It has come to my notice that one video of mine is being circulated in the media to create negativity. I would like to clarify that it’s an incomplete video and even because of such video if any one’s sentiments are hurt then I would like to apologise as I respect all individuals,” she wrote.

Meanwhile, Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi slammed Latha’s gesture, terming it provocative, objectionable, and vulgar, and appealed to the electorate to vote for the peace and prosperity of Hyderabad. “People of Hyderabad had seen the BJP’s intentions. They will not accept BJP-RSS’ vulgar and provocative actions.” he said.

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“Is this the ‘Viksit Bharat’ BJP is talking about? The peace of Hyderabad is greater than elections. I am confident that the people of Telangana will vote against the BJP who are against peace in the state,” Owaisi added.

He further questioned the Election Commission, the Hyderabad Commissioner of Police, the District Election Officer and the Chief Electoral Officer for not taking suo motu action against her.

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An AIMIM leader said they will take up the matter with the Election Commission of India and file a police complaint against Latha. However, the Election Commission spokesperson remained silent on whether any complaints had been received or actions taken regarding the incident.

Latha, aged 49, calls herself a “daughter of RSS”, a “typical traditional Indian woman”, an entrepreneur, hospital administrator, and a trained Bharatanatyam dancer. Despite being a political newcomer, she gained popularity after being selected by the BJP to challenge Owaisi, whose party has held the Hyderabad Lok Sabha seat since 1984. Earlier, she received a commendation from the Prime Minister for her appearance on a television programme.