In a strategic move following the conclusion of nominations for the municipal elections, the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) party has decided to shift its focus towards a robust campaign. The party aims to coordinate local leaders and activists without excessive fanfare, emphasizing the achievements of its ten years in power compared to the two years of failure under the Congress government. This approach is intended to resonate with voters as the party prepares for the upcoming elections.
The BRS has established a war room to enhance coordination for the municipal elections, assigning responsibilities to party coordinators across 125 municipalities, including 116 municipalities and seven municipal corporations. There are plans to appoint additional coordinators as needed. Key figures, including BRS Working President K. T. Rama Rao and Deputy Floor Leader Harish Rao, are expected to participate in corner meetings and roadshows to galvanize support.
In a notable development, the BRS acted strategically to prevent its candidates in the Kodangal constituency, represented by Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, from withdrawing their nominations in favor of Congress candidates. Reports indicate that significant pressure was exerted on candidates in the municipalities of Kosgi, Kodangal, and Maddur, prompting the BRS to relocate its candidates to a secret location to safeguard their participation.
Following the conclusion of the nomination withdrawal phase on Tuesday afternoon, BRS candidates returned to their homes to commence their campaigning efforts. The party has also forged local alliances with both Communist parties, CPI and CPM, in several areas. This is particularly evident in constituencies like Mahabubabad, Bhuvanagiri, Choutuppal, and others, where the BRS has allocated certain seats to these parties while considering local political dynamics.
In New Kodangal, where CPI MLA resides, discussions have led to an understanding between the CPI, CPM, and BRS to collaborate on specific wards. However, sources within the BRS have revealed that some of their candidates have withdrawn from the race due to intimidation and pressure from Congress, particularly in wards where they faced competition.
Reports suggest that in the Ramagundam and Mahabubnagar municipal corporations, BRS candidates also withdrew at the last minute, paving the way for Congress to secure uncontested wins. In various municipalities, including Yadagirigutta, Parakala, Choutuppal, and Medak, BRS candidates retracted their nominations, allowing Congress candidates to emerge victorious without facing opposition.
Allegations have emerged from the BRS that government whip Beeral Ayilya threatened a candidate in the tenth ward of Yadagirigutta municipality, compelling them to withdraw from the election. This incident highlights the intense political climate as both parties vie for dominance in the local elections.
As the BRS gears up for its campaign, the party is keen on showcasing its decade-long governance achievements while addressing the failures of the Congress party. With the election date approaching, the political landscape in Telangana is becoming increasingly competitive, setting the stage for a closely contested battle.
