he Telangana Joint Action Committee (TJAC) has alleged that the state police is repeatedly trying to intimidate its members.

Addressing a press conference in Hyderabad on Thursday, TJAC chairman Professor M Kodandaram charged the police of intimidation tactics that included repeated visits and violating privacy by asking personal questions.

Speaking to TNM, Kodandaram elaborated on the accusations.

"They are doing two or three things mainly. They are turning up at houses of our activists, and asking them personal questions like what they do, where they work, what their parents do, what their children do, and other questions on those lines," he says.

He added, "They are even calling people, and asking them questions about the property they own, what vehicle they own, without giving any valid reason for such questions." 

Kodandaram also alleged that they received complaints from members that in some cases police bluntly asked them to stop their activism, and not to continue working for the organisation.

"It is one thing if the police try to extract information through their channels and sources, but such open threats are not acceptable," he says.

Three years ago, Kodandaram, played an active role in the Telangana struggle for separate statehood as head of the TJAC, and was one of Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao's biggest supporters.

However, he is considered one of KCR's most vocal critics today.

Kodandaram adds that the 'intimidation' comes only because of the TJAC's criticism of the ruling TRS government.

"This is the only reason why this is happening," he says.

"We have always been a peaceful organisation, and have abided by the constitution. If we have violated any law or any rule, then you have every right to question us. However, what is happening here, is downright unconstitutional," he adds.

When contacted, the Hyderabad police refused to comment on the allegations.


Read - From KCR's biggest supporter, to vocal critic: An interview with Prof. Kodandaram