A video circulating on social media depicts what seems to be a newly covered grave in Malkapur, Choutuppal division of Telangana. The headstone of the grave displays a poster of BJP national president JP Nadda, sparking criticism from BJP leaders.

Vishnu Vardhan Reddy, BJP’s general secretary in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh, shared the video first and condemned the act. The incident occurred in the Munugode Assembly constituency, where a by-poll is scheduled for November 3. Reddy accused TRS workers of orchestrating the act, describing it as “despicable” and beyond the standards of the TRS party.

Telangana BJP leader NV Subash, as reported by news agency ANI, expressed strong disapproval, stating, “Digging a grave and putting a picture of J.P. Nadda is stupidity. We condemn it and will file a police complaint.”

The video reveals a mound of soil resembling a grave adorned with fresh garlands and flowers, featuring Nadda’s photo on a flex placed under a signboard reading “Regional Fluoride Mitigation and Research Centre, Choutuppal.” The short video concludes with four individuals walking away from the site.

Narayan Reddy, Deputy Commissioner of Police in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district, mentioned that no official complaint had been lodged, and investigations were underway to determine the sequence of events. TRS leaders denied involvement, with Nalgonda MLA Bhupal Reddy suggesting that disaffected BJP members may be responsible and blaming the TRS to deflect attention.

National BJP leaders, including Rajya Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia, condemned the incident, attributing it to the growing influence of the BJP in Telangana. Union Cabinet minister Smriti Irani characterized it as “a new low in Indian politics,” quoting the Hindi proverb “vinash kale vipreeth buddhi.” Union minister Hardeep Singh Puri described it as a “disturbing and disgraceful new low in the political discourse,” emphasizing the intimidation faced by challengers to the BJP in Telangana.