Medak politics hotting up; Ramulamma to campaign

Medak: Following the recent comeback of defeated candidate in last election and Congress leader Vijayashanthi aka Ramulamma entering into active politics, the political arena of the constituency,especially for Mahakutami (Grand Alliance),has turned into a virtual battle ground. 

With the former Deputy Speaker Padma Devender Reddy being declared as TRS candidate, it was the turn of Grand Alliance led by Congress to declare its candidate. The recent meeting of the alliance partners TDP, TJS, CPI and Congress parties on seat sharing failed to alter uncertain situation. It created new hopes in Congress aspirants like KantareddyTirupathi Reddy, former legislator Sasidhar Reddy, Chowdary Suprabhata Rao,BattiJagapathi and Myadam Balakrishna.

Taking cue from Padma Reddy of the pink party, who launched poll campaign on 24/7 basis, most of them started campaigning as if their candidature has been already declared. Kantareddy has gone a step ahead by distributing ‘PustheMettalu’ and extending financial assistance to poor families which lost their bread winners. According to political analysts,the party highcommand will give preference to the leader supported by Vijayshanthi. If that is the case, her avid follower Suprabhatha Rao may get the ticket.

But, according to party sources, the highcommand is keeping three points in mind in rejecting the aspirants: Leaders who lost thrice in a row in elections;those who were defeated with a difference of more than 30,000 votes and those who lost 2014 election with less than 25,000 votes. Seniors are treating these terms as a setback to their aspiration, whereas new faces feel it is an advantage for them. If the Grand Alliance allots ticket to TJS, the party may field advocate Janardhan Reddy. Leaders AkulaRajaiah and Rajendar are key aspirants for BJP ticket.