Twists and turns in Quthbullapur

Quthbullapur: Political developments in the constituency are taking twists and turns making the poll scene interesting. After the episode of withdrawing nominations, it seems the main contest is between TRS and Congress, on behalf of Grand Alliance. The constituency has influential votes from the people from Andhra, who settled here and those defected to the ruling party after the formation of new State. These are the factors which are going to play a major role in the forthcoming elections.

Kuna ahead of Viveka

Former MLA Vivekananda has been campaigning well before his candidature was declared. But Congress did not announce its candidate as there was much deliberations among the Grand Alliance. Vivekananda, who won 2014 elections from TDP defected to TRS. It is said that the votes from the ‘settlers’ who have always been with TDP helped him in winning. But all these voters may support Kuna Srisailam Goud, who is supported by TDP in the coming elections. This is definitely unexpected advantage for the Congress candidate.

In fact, TDP demanded the ticket for Quthbullapur constituency from Grand Alliance as its candidate was the sitting MLA. But after defection of Vivekananda, TDP has no competent candidate to fight the poll. Obviously, Srisailam Goud was the winning horse for the GA. Srisailam Goud also commenced his campaign even though his candidature was not declared. When he was chosen for the Kutami, he intensified his campaign in every nook and corner of the constituency.

Unexpected support from TRS rebel

After gaining support from TDP and its cadre, Kuna Srisailam had gained assurance from the influential vote bank. Kolanu Hanumantha Reddy, who contested as TRS candidate in earlier elections joined TDP as he was denied ticket this time. He extended his full support to Srisailam making his chances brighter. Hanumantha Reddy also has a sizable cadre and followers in the constituency, which would help the prospects of Srisailam Goud. Another twist here is from TDP rebel Burgubavi Hanumantha Rao, who expected ticket from the party. He announced to contest as rebel. But he withdrew his nomination and extended his support to Srisailam Goud. This development is also a shot in the arm for the Congress candidate.

No candidate from BJP

BJP tried to establish its presence in the constituency after the dissolution of the house. Kasani Veereshwar filed nomination from the party. But surprisingly he opted out from the contest quoting family reasons. Nominations of the rebel candidates Cherukupalli Bharatsimha Reddy and Srinivas Garge were rejected.  As a result, there is no candidates from the BJP. All these factors are favouring the Congress candidate, making him to spearhead his political campaign. On the other hand, the TRS candidate Vivekanada is not sure of support from settlers and the cadre of rebel TRS candidate Kolanu Hanumantha Reddy. Viveka is in dilemma over the fast-changing equations in the constituency.

Rumours were also rife that Vivekandand had rift with local leader and MLC Shambhipur Raju. But both are seen canvassing together. Vivekananda’s father, political mentor and senior leader Pandu passed away recently, which is also a big blow for him. His opponent Kuna Srisailam Goud has been focusing on the campaign as his brother Srinivas Goud is looking after everything. Support from his family is also another matter of strength for him. As the polling date is approaching, all eyes on these two candidates. Analysts and people of the constituency are eagerly waiting for the result.

BY Pathi Madhav