Telangana: Probe Launched After KTR's Remarks On Free Bus Travel For Women Face Backlash

Later, KTR issued an apology for his remarks expressing regret that he never intended to offend his woman sisters.

The Telangana State Women's Commission has initiated a suo moto inquiry into alleged derogatory comments made by Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) working president and Sirisilla MLA, K.T. Rama Rao (Fondly known as KTR). The remarks, which were widely circulated on social media, have drawn criticism for their perceived insensitivity toward women.

According to Chairman of Telangana State Women's Commission, Sharada Nerella said, "The Telangana Women’s Commission has taken suo moto cognizance of a media post made by, Sri K. Taraka Rama Rao, Hon'ble Legislator, Sirisilla Constituency. The said post has been widely circulated and has come to the attention of the Commission due to its derogatory nature, particularly concerning women and the larger community of women in Telangana."

"The Commission has observed that the comments made in the post are not only inappropriate but have also caused distress among women across the state. In light of the above, the Commission has initiated a suo moto inquiry into the matter under the powers vested in it by the Telangana State Women’s Commission Act."

KTR's Comment Draws Ire

The controversy stems from comments made by K.T. Rama Rao, in which he reportedly said, “We have no objection to what the women do. We never said peeling garlic or cleaning ginger is wrong. It is just that we did not know that buses were for these purposes... All we are saying is introduce more buses, have one bus for one passenger if you wish. Let entire families travel together, let them knit, weave, and if they wish, let them do break dances, recording (a kind of vulgar dance banned in Telugu state)… All we said was folks were tearing at each other’s hair fighting for seats, which was not the case when KCR was in power."

However, KTR apologised for his statement. Taking to X, he said, "I am sorry if our women sisters were offended by the usual comments made in the party meeting yesterday.. I never meant to offend my sisters."

The remarks were met with backlash, with many perceiving them as dismissive of women's activities and contributions. In response, Panchayat Raj and Rural Development Minister Seethaka demanded an unconditional apology from K.T. Rama Rao.