In a significant jolt to the Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Goshamahal MLA T Raja Singh has resigned from the party, expressing strong disapproval over the likely appointment of N Ramchander Rao as the state unit president. The three-time MLA, known for his hardline Hindutva views, conveyed his decision to G Kishan Reddy, the Telangana BJP president, on Monday.
Singh's resignation stems from his feeling of being "kept out" of the state chief race and the sidelining of grassroots workers. He alleged that "some individuals, driven by personal interests, have misled the central leadership and taken decisions by running the show from behind the curtain". Singh further stated that many capable MLAs, MPs, and senior leaders within the state unit had worked tirelessly to strengthen the party, but their contributions were being ignored.
T Raja Singh's attempt to file his nomination for the Telangana BJP presidency post was unsuccessful, as he could not garner enough support. He alleged that his supporters were threatened with dire consequences if they proposed his name or signed his nomination papers. Singh said that he had taken several personal risks for the party and that his family was under the scrutiny of terrorists.
In his resignation letter, Singh expressed his disappointment, stating that the decision to appoint Ramchander Rao had "shocked and disappointed" not just him but also "lakhs of Karyakartas, leaders, and voters" who have stood by the BJP through its highs and lows. He added that as the BJP stood at the threshold of forming its first government in Telangana, the choice of leadership raises "serious doubts about the direction we are heading". He fears the leadership change will undermine grassroots efforts and jeopardize the party's chances in Telangana.
While stepping away from the BJP, Singh affirmed his commitment to Hindutva ideology and serving the people of his Goshamahal constituency. "I will continue to raise my voice and stand with the Hindu community with even greater strength," he said. He also urged BJP workers to observe the situation carefully, stating that the appointment of "such leaders" would not help the party achieve power in the state.
N Ramchander Rao, a lawyer and former member of the state Legislative Council, has been associated with the BJP for over four decades. He has previously worked in Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad, Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha, and the BJP's legal cell.
T Raja Singh's resignation comes amid reports of internal conflicts and dissatisfaction within the Telangana BJP. In February 2025, Singh openly expressed displeasure over the appointment of T Uma Mahendra as president of the Golconda-Goshamahal unit. He accused the BJP leadership of ignoring his recommendation to appoint a Backward Class (BC) or Scheduled Caste (SC) leader.