The controversy over the University of Hyderabad Artificial Intelligence Centre has taken a sharp political turn, with BRS leaders Krishank Manne and Dileep Konatham being subjected to over nine hours of police questioning on Wednesday.
Both were summoned to the Gachibowli Police Station in connection with social media posts supporting HCU students protesting against the alleged encroachment of biodiversity-rich campus lands.
Krishank appeared at the police station wearing a black shirt with the word “deMockRRacy” printed boldly — a direct jab at Chief Minister Revanth Reddy (RR), accusing him of mocking democracy.
Emerging from the questioning, Krishank told reporters, “As a former Osmania University student, I’m saying this clearly. We will fight hard for HCU. First, they asked two questions. After seven hours, three different officers came and grilled me with 25, 22, and 20 questions each. What kind of drama is this? Are universities your family property, Revanth?” The Gachibowli Police have now issued fresh notices summoning both leaders again on April 14.
Reacting to this, Krishank questioned the timing: “How is it fair to summon a Dalit leader on Ambedkar Jayanti and deny him the right to celebrate the man who gave us our Constitution?”
Dileep Konatham, former Director of Digital Media for Telangana, also accused the government of vindictive action.
“Even if 100 cases are filed against us, we won’t back down. What lie are they trying to cover up? That Gachibowli forest exists? That there are peacocks, deer, and wildlife in HCU? That bulldozers were sent during a university holiday? That students resisted the destruction? Now, they’re saying we created this movement by posting on social media. That’s the biggest lie.”
Both said the police indicated an informal phone search may be conducted at their residences soon.
BRS Working President KT Rama Rao condemned the police action in strong words.
“Revanth plays Gandhi in Ahmedabad and bulldozes democracy in Telangana. His police spent nine hours questioning Dileep and Krishank just for supporting HCU students and biodiversity. Now they want to search their homes. Does Article 21 mean nothing? Does privacy still exist?”
