Joined politics with YSR’s inspiration

Kadapa: After suspension of Rajampet MLA Meda Mallikarjuna Reddy from the TDP, Rajampet Assembly constituency will witness caste fight between Reddy and Kapu communities in 2019 general elections. It may be recalled that Meda is the only candidate in the district to be elected on TDP ticket by defeating YSRCP candidate Akepati Amarnath Reddy with a margin of 11,617 votes in 2014 elections. 

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu initiated several steps either in providing ticket or later facilitating with Government Whip post against the wishes of party leaders especially from Kapu community, who are the deciding factor in the constituency. However, after suspension of Meda from the party, Kapus are happy with the decision of the Chief Minister and they are trying to draw his attention for securing ticket in ensuing elections. 

According to sources, Kapu leaders in TDP like Pasupuleti Brahmaiah, Batyala Chengal Raju and Pathipati Kusuma Kumari are expecting Rajampet ticket. Meanwhile, Mallikarjuna Reddy, who officially announced of his joining with YSRCP, has paid tributes at the YSR memorial in Idupulapaya on Wednesday. 

He informed the media that he joined in politics with the inspiration of former Chief Minister Rajasekhara Reddy. I have decided to be loyal to the YSR family at this critical juncture, he stated. The MLA has hoped that the YSRCP would win all constituencies including two MP seats in the district in the upcoming elections. But, the MLA tight lipped to reveal whether he will contest from Rajampet Assembly segment in 2019 elections.