Though the BJP succeeded in preventing `rebel YCP MP’ K Raghurama Krishnam Raju to contest from his sitting Narsapur constituency, the TDP leadership is reportedly exploring possibilities of providing them an opportunity to contest from some other constituency.
His tireless struggle against YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s repressive regime, more than any other opposition leader, gained him some sympathy among people. TDP is of the view that it will be advantageous to the party, particularly in the Godavari belt. Initially, it considered fielding him from Vizianagaram Lok Sabha constituency, as Kshtriya voters are in large numbers in that area.
However, local TDP leaders have cautioned TDP leadership that that will give scope to the political opponent to raise the bogy of `non-local’. Already, in alliance with TDP, BJP has given Anakapalli seat to former MP CM Ramesh, who originally hails from Kadapa district.
As TDP is attempting to cash upon `north Andhra’ sentiment in the polls, they felt it is not wise to field Raghuram Krishnam Raju from here. This makes TDP to focus on fielding him in the assembly polls. Already, they are searching for a suitable constituency in West Godavari belt.
Though TDP announced candidates to all the assembly segments in the district, now it is considering changing candidates in some constituencies, offering the same to Raju. Though they have reportedly identified one or two constituencies for him, an official announcement is yet to be made.
TDP is likely to take a decision in two or three days in consultation with its chief N Chandrababu Naidu. Already Naidu is said to have voiced his opinions with few leaders.
On the other hand, several social groups are urging Narasapuram MP Raju to contest as an independent candidate from his home constituency. If he is in the contest, they feel that the BJP candidate will not be taken seriously and it may not be difficult for him to win in the polls.
Amaravati Bahujan JAC President Potula Balakotaiah said that Raghuram Krishnam Raju was the only leader who fought against CM Jagan and YSRCP’s undemocratic governance policies. He questioned why the three parties in the alliance are not joining hands to give the MP seat to Raju.
He said that the people of the state are unable to digest that he is not given a seat. He said that seat allotments are a bit confusing and frustrating, which is hurting many people. He demanded leaders of three opposition parties- TDP, Jana Sena and BJP to reconsider their selection of candidates and ensure a seat for Raju.
