Telugu Desam Party MLA from the Chittoor Assembly constituency, Gurajala Jagan, found himself at the centre of a political controversy after claiming that people from Chittoor “govern” a significant part of Bengaluru and Chennai.
The remarks drew sharp criticism from Kannada organisations, prompting the legislator to issue a public apology while maintaining that his comments had been misinterpreted.
Speaking at a recent event, the Chittoor MLA claimed that people from Chittoor effectively “administer” half of Bengaluru and also wield considerable influence in Chennai.
Kannada organisations reacted strongly, accusing him of hurting the sentiments and self-respect of the people of Karnataka.
A representative of a Kannada organisation claimed that a case had been registered against the MLA in Bengaluru.
The activist also accused Jagan of involvement in alleged irregularities in the real estate sector in Bengaluru’s Whitefield area and claimed to have evidence supporting the allegations.
He advised the MLA to confine himself to Chittoor politics and warned that remarks perceived as insulting Kannada pride would not be tolerated. He also demanded an immediate apology from the legislator.
Responding to the controversy, Gurajala Jagan expressed regret if his comments had hurt the sentiments of Kannadigas.
He clarified that his intention was only to highlight the entrepreneurial success of Telugu-speaking people across the country and not to demean any community.
The MLA alleged that his political opponents had distorted his remarks to create an unnecessary controversy.
He pointed out that he had moved from Chittoor to Bengaluru in the past, established a business there and achieved success.
Jagan said he held Bengaluru and the people of Karnataka in high regard and reiterated that he had no intention of offending anyone.
He offered a sincere apology to anyone who was hurt by his remarks.
Although Gurajala Jagan has generally maintained a low profile and stayed away from controversies, he was in the news around three months ago following reports of differences with MP Daggumalla Prasada Rao.
Both leaders later appeared together before the media, dismissed speculation about any rift and clarified that a dispute involving financial transactions related to DWCRA groups had been wrongly portrayed as a conflict between the MLA and the MP.
