Telangana Minister Konda Surekha has published a public retraction of a controversial statement that connected Bharat Raksha Samithi (BRS) leader KT Rama Rao (KTR) to the divorce of actors Samantha Ruth Prabhu and Naga Chaitanya. Surekha's earlier remarks ignited extensive outrage from various sectors, including not only the film industry but also political circles.

In her initial assertion, Surekha claimed that KTR was the cause of the couple's separation and that the BRS leader was also accountable for the departure of numerous female actors from the Telugu film industry early in their careers. Surekha's comments were met with swift backlash, however, Samantha and Chaitanya were among those who offered pointed denials. Although her allegations sparked a significant debate, this incident highlights the complexities of public figures and their influences; because of the nature of such claims, reactions can be intense and varied.

@Samanthaprabhu2 .

.. ..

— Konda surekha (@iamkondasurekha) October 2, 2024

Surekha took to X (formerly Twitter) to retract her statement, writing in Telugu: "My intention was only to highlight how a leader is disrespectful towards women, not to hurt your sentiments, Samantha. I admire your growth and strength. If my words have caused any harm to you or your fans, I unconditionally retract them."

The controversy intensified after KTR issued a defamation notice to Surekha, accusing her of trying to tarnish his image. He demanded a retraction of her statements; however, Surekha had initially implicated KTR in her remarks regarding the harassment of female leaders in Telangana. This situation is complicated.  Although tensions are high, communication may be key in resolving this dispute.

Samantha addressed the controversy in a message posted on her Instagram Stories, emphasizing that her divorce from Naga Chaitanya was a mutual decision and not influenced by any political factors. "My divorce is a personal matter, and I request that you refrain from speculating about it... To clarify: my divorce was mutual consent and amicable, with no political conspiracy involved," Samantha wrote.

Naga Chaitanya also issued a statement, calling Surekha's claims "false" and "ridiculous." He expressed his disappointment over the way celebrities' personal lives are exploited for media attention, "Women deserve to be supported and respected... Taking advantage and exploiting the personal life decisions of celebrities for the sake of media headlines is shameful."

Chaitanya's father, veteran actor Nagarjuna, expressed his disapproval on X, urging Surekha to take back her comments. "I strongly condemn the comments of the Minister, Konda Surekha. Don't use the lives of movie stars who stay away from politics to criticize your opponents. Please respect other people's privacy."

My dear mother I support every word you have said and I am With you and the family..I’m sorry that you have to address this demonic nonsense but we have no choice sometimes but to deal with such sociopaths. https://t.co/an9SrXBkon

— Akhil Akkineni (@AkhilAkkineni8) October 2, 2024

Akhil Akkineni, Chaitanya’s brother, took it a step further by labeling Surekha a "sociopath" in a post on X, where he backed his mother Amala’s comments. Akhil shared, "My dear mother, I support every word you have said... I'm sorry that you have to address this demonic nonsense but we have no choice sometimes but to deal with such sociopaths."

The controversy has sparked a significant backlash from various celebrities, such as Jr NTR, Nani, and Khushbu Sundar, who all condemned Surekha’s remarks for overstepping boundaries. This heated debate has highlighted the delicate nature of public figures' private lives and the obligation of political leaders to honor personal issues.