By Soniya:
A major political and legal development unfolded in Telangana after Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar’s son, Bandi Bhageerath, surrendered before the Cyberabad police in connection with a case registered under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
The surrender came shortly after police issued a look-out circular against Bhageerath to prevent him from leaving the country during the ongoing investigation. The Telangana High Court also declined to grant him interim protection from arrest, adding further momentum to the case.
Case Registered Following Complaint by Minor’s Mother
The case was registered on May 8 after the mother of a 17-year-old girl approached the police alleging that Bhageerath was involved in a relationship with her daughter and had sexually harassed her.
According to the complaint, the two became acquainted through mutual contacts around June 2025 and continued communicating through social media platforms including Instagram and Snapchat.
The complainant alleged that Bhageerath gained the minor’s trust by promising marriage after she turned 18 and emotionally pressured her during the relationship. Based on the girl’s statement, police invoked relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) along with stricter provisions under the POCSO Act.
Bandi Sanjay Says Son Cooperated With Law
In a public statement, Union Minister Bandi Sanjay Kumar said that despite maintaining innocence, his son was handed over for investigation “out of respect for the law and judiciary.”
The minister stated that legal advisors had initially believed the case would be dismissed and that bail would likely be granted, which led to some delay in surrendering. However, he said he ultimately decided not to prolong the process further.
He emphasized that “everyone is equal before the law,” whether a minister’s son or an ordinary citizen, and expressed full faith in the judicial system.
Telangana High Court Refuses Interim Relief
Before the surrender, Bhageerath approached the Telangana High Court seeking interim anticipatory bail and protection from arrest.
However, during the hearing, the court stated that it was not inclined to pass any interim order at that stage. The refusal was seen as a setback for Bhageerath’s legal team, following which the surrender took place.
Counter-Complaint Filed by Bhageerath
The matter took another turn after Bhageerath filed a counter-complaint against the girl’s family.
In his complaint, he claimed that the girl and her parents pressured him for marriage and later demanded money after he declined. He alleged that he paid ₹50,000 to the girl’s father out of fear and that the family later demanded ₹5 crore while threatening to file false cases against him.
Bhageerath also alleged that threats involving self-harm were made if the demands were not fulfilled. Police reportedly registered an FIR based on his complaint as well.
Political Reactions Intensify
The case has now triggered political reactions in Telangana. Telangana Rakshana Sena president K. Kavitha wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi demanding the removal of Bandi Sanjay Kumar from the Union Cabinet to ensure a fair and unbiased investigation.
The controversy has rapidly grown into a high-profile case involving legal, political, and public scrutiny.
Investigation Continues
Cyberabad police are continuing their investigation into both complaints. Officials are expected to examine digital communication records, witness statements, and other evidence as part of the probe.
The case remains under close public attention due to the political profile of the individuals involved and the serious nature of allegations under the POCSO Act.
