Bandi Sanjay responds to KTR’s legal notice over defamatory comments

Hyderabad: Union Minister and BJP MP Bandi Sanjay on October 29, 2024, has issued a formal response to the legal notice sent by K.T. Rama Rao (KTR), working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), on October 22, 2024. KTR's notice accused Sanjay of making baseless and defamatory comments, threatening legal action unless Sanjay offers an unconditional apology within a week.

In his response, Bandi Sanjay denied all allegations, describing them as "false and baseless," and stated that the claims are devoid of merit and based on malafide intent. He expressed his dismay over the accusations and highlighted that he has always been dedicated to public welfare, particularly concerning student issues, referencing his past involvement in student politics with the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP).

Sanjay's legal response pointedly contested the allegations made in KTR’s notice, asserting that KTR's claims were exaggerated and challenged KTR to provide proof of his accusations. He maintained that he did not mention KTR's name during a press conference on October 19, 2024, and denied awareness of any specific videos or headlines regarding the event.

Further, Bandi Sanjay claimed that KTR had previously admitted to phone tapping under the BRS government during a meeting of party leaders in March 2024. He also criticised the BRS administration for its handling of the TSPSC Group-1 exams, citing cancellations and controversies.

BJP MP Bandi Sanjay reiterated that his statements were neither defamatory nor intended to harm KTR's reputation. He highlighted that his role as a Union Minister and Member of Parliament allows him to address public concerns, asserting that his comments fell within his rights to freedom of speech and expression as guaranteed by the Constitution of India.

However, Bandi Sanjay called on KTR to withdraw the legal notice and issue a public apology. He warned that failure to comply within seven days would result in legal action against KTR for the consequences arising from the allegations.