In most of the seats, where BJP is contesting in Andhra Pradesh after finalizing seat adjustments with TDP and Jana Sena, the party has nominal presence. Mostly depending upon support receiving from TDP and Jana Sena.
Though BJP never seen as a potential player in Anaparthy assembly constituency, it got the seat and announced ex-servicemen Sivaramakrishnam Raju as its candidate. Traditionally, after Prakasam district to Srikakulam, this is the only constituency where Reddys are having considerable presence and whichever party may be fielding a Reddy candidate.
Ironically, even before reaching into alliance with BJP in its first list TDP announced Nallamilli Ramakrishna Reddy as its candidate from here and he has already started his poll campaign. Now, giving this seat naturally receiving resistance from his supporters. Moreover, BJP candidate was earlier failed even to get deposit by contesting as Sarpanch in his village.
BJP is more worried as this assembly segment is part of Rajamahendravaram Lok Sabha constituency, from where state party chief and former union minister D Purandeswari is contesting. BJP fearing that fielding a weak candidate in Anaparthy may have its impact on Lok Sabha seat also.
According to sources, Purandeswari personally met TDP candidate Ramakrishna Reddy and asked him to join BJP and contest as BJP candidate. But, he has bluntly refused her invitation and made it clear he has not need to leave TDP.
Even after the BJP announced its candidate, Ramakrishna Reddy extensively campaigning in villages. Two days ago, he also met party chief Chandrababu Naidu and requested him to do justice to him. His followers are insisting him to contest even as an independent, if BJP is adamant to contest from here.
Manwhile, as section of BJP are suggesting that TDP may take this seat and may allot another seat for BJP in Chittoor district or elsewhere.
