Union Minister of State for Home Bandi Sanjay Kumar on Thursday defended BJP workers, saying they had no intention of attacking the camp office of a BRS MLA in Karimnagar, but asked whether they were expected to remain silent in the face of alleged abuse. The minister cautioned political opponents against mistaking restraint for weakness or helplessness.

State BJP president N. Ramchander Rao condemned personal remarks made by BRS MLA Padi Kaushik Reddy against Mr. Sanjay Kumar, saying the BJP would not remain a silent spectator if its leaders were targeted with false allegations or insults.

Mr. Rao also marked one year of the Indian Army's 'Operation Sindhoor,' an initiative targeting terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, and paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives.

The BJP leaders' statements come amid tensions between the party and its rivals in the state. The BJP has warned against behavior that could lead to personal defamation, while reiterating that criticism and counter-criticism are part of democratic politics. The case is likely to be closely watched in the coming days, with the BJP expected to continue to defend its workers and respond to allegations made by its rivals. The party's next steps will depend on the response from its rivals and the actions taken by the authorities.