JSP chief to face two stalwarts

Bhimavaram: The entry of Jana Sena chief Pawan Kalyan into the fray has changed the political face of this constituency prestigious for both ruling Telugu Desam and opposition YSRCP. Will cine stardom wins over the political reality is now a puzzle for political pundits.

As TDP candidate and sitting MLA Pulavarti Ramanjaneyulu (Anjibabu) and YSRCP candidate Grandhi Srinivas hail from same social group as that of Pawan Kalyan, there is confusion on how to rate them individually.

The presence of JSP chief is unexpected to the two political stalwarts. Both Anjibabu and Srinivas did home work well ahead of the polls. They have assessed their strengths village-wise and had consultations with leaders of their own social group to ensure victory over each other. The constituency has 2,46,336 voters of which 80,000 are OCs and 90,000 BCs. The voting of BCs and SC/STs is crucial for victory of any candidate.

The huge fan following for Pawan Kalyan has made the two rivals to change their strategy to improve their chances. The two-time MLA Anjibabu is banking on the works he had done during the last five years and various government welfare schemes.

On the other hand, Srinivas, the one-time MLA, is comparing his working style with that of the ruling party rival and depending more on the 'failures' of the MLA. He is also highlighting YSRCP agenda and promises made by the party chief Jagan to divert voters to his side. It has to be seen how far PK succeeds in cashing on the fight between his TDP and YSRCP rivals to make it to Assembly from here.