Hyderabad: Former MP B Vinod Kumar has expressed surprise over the omission of any reference to Telangana in the latest memoir of Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, titled ‘Belonging: A Journey of Love’, which was recently launched.

Taking to X, Vinod Kumar said that Sonia Gandhi played a pivotal role in the political decision-making that ultimately led to the formation of Telangana. Her contribution to the statehood process has been widely acknowledged in Telangana, particularly in view of the historic struggle and the aspirations of its people.

As the then Congress President and UPA Chairperson, she recognised the deep-rooted public sentiment and the strength of a prolonged people’s movement, marked by years of protests, strikes and immense sacrifices.

The Telangana statehood movement witnessed the loss of more than 1,200 students and activists, whose sacrifices remain an integral part of the history of Telangana.

However, it is surprising that this historic chapter finds no mention in her latest memoir—not even a reference to the word Telangana. The reasons behind this omission are best known to Sonia Gandhi. Nevertheless, the formation of Telangana remains a defining chapter in the political history of the country and an unforgettable milestone in the collective journey of its people.