In a dramatic escalation ahead of the planned “Chalo Bus Bhavan” protest, senior Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) leaders including K.T. Rama Rao (KTR) and T. Harish Rao were reportedly placed under house arrest, as police moved to block their participation in the rally opposing the recent increase in RTC (state transport) bus fares.
What the Protest Was About
BRS had called for the protest to press the Telangana government to roll back the increased bus fares, which they argue place an undue burden on daily commuters, especially the poor and middle class. The party planned to march to RTC Bus Bhavan and submit a memorandum demanding the reversal of the hike.
Police Action & House Arrests
- According to BRS statements, police detained KTR and Harish Rao at their homes before the protest could begin. Heavy deployment of police personnel and barricading were reported around key areas in Hyderabad.
- Police also reportedly sealed off several approach roads to Bus Bhavan, installed barricades in areas like RTC “X” Roads, Musheerabad, and Chikkadpally, and restricted movement of party workers.
- Some BRS workers were reportedly detained en route to the protest site.
- KTR criticized the move, stating that all he intended to do was board an RTC bus to reach the RTC MD’s office and submit a letter demanding the rollback. He lamented that such force was used to prevent peaceful protest, and remarked that similar efforts ought to be made to curb crime rather than block political dissent.
Clashes, Tension & Political Charge
- The “Chalo Bus Bhavan” event saw tension and confrontations between party workers and police at multiple points. In Secunderabad and surrounding areas, scuffles broke out as many protesters were stopped before reaching their destination. Some senior BRS leaders did manage to reach Bus Bhavan premises, but were reportedly barred from entering the RTC MD’s office.
- BRS has condemned the arrests and deployment, labeling them as an attempt by the ruling party to stifle dissent. They vowed to continue their campaign until the fare hike is withdrawn.
What’s Next
- BRS is expected to press ahead with further protests and public outreach, despite the restrictions.
- Observers will be watching whether courts or human rights bodies intervene on the ground arrests and freedom to protest.
- The Telangana government is likely to respond over police action and justify its handling of law and order during the protests.
