BJP leader Manikanth Rathod has strongly criticized the blocking of his Instagram and Facebook accounts, calling the move a deliberate attempt to “silence his voice” and limit his digital reach.
Mr. Rathod, who spoke to reporters here on Friday, alleged that the ban was a politically motivated act and accused Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Minister Priyank Kharge and the state government of conspiring to freeze his accounts.
“This is a clear attempt to limit my right to free speech guaranteed by the Constitution. People who often talk about protecting the Constitution are themselves working against it by trying to suppress my voice,” he said.
Mr. Rathod pointed out that he has 72,000 followers on Instagram and 44,000 followers on Facebook and that his videos have garnered millions of views. “Blocking one social media account won’t stop me,” he claimed.
He further alleged that the move was part of an ongoing effort to intimidate him, claiming that a “number of cases” were filed with the intention of silencing him. “Mr. Priyank Kharge is trying various methods to suppress my voice. But I will not give in. If he does not change his stand, people will give a befitting reply at the befitting time,” he warned.
Reiterating his resolve, he said he would continue to highlight issues related to corruption and illegal activities allegedly taking place in the district. He added that he has already opened a new social media account to stay connected with the public.
Published – 12 Dec 2025 20:56 IST
