The unity of BC voters in Kodad constituency is a big challenge for Congress candidate Uttam Kumar Reddy’s wife, Padmavati. She is trying hard to win over the rural voters, but KCR’s schemes and the support enjoyed by BRS candidate B Mallayya Yadav has made it difficult for her.
During a recent public meeting in Kodad, BRS supremo and CM K Chandrashekar Rao stated that all BC communities should unite and support his candidates. This created a political storm in the constituency as BC communities are now holding meetings and supporting Yadav. Padmavati faced embarrassing moments when BC communities raised slogans against Congress during party rallies.
It is not an easy win as there are a large number of beneficiaries of KCR’s welfare schemes in the segment. The unity of BC communities against Uttam’s family is a major concern. Although Uttam claims his wife has emerged strong and confident of winning, voters are still strong supporters of the ruling party and are rallying behind Yadav.
While Uttam relies on the strength of poached leaders, BRS is confident of ground-level voter support. Congress leaders are making a big deal about the joining of BRS and other leaders, but voters have already decided to support BRS and defeat Padmavati. The party manifesto is also attracting more voters.
On the other hand, Padmavati is facing criticism from locals for not addressing their issues as an Opposition leader. She has mostly attended marriage functions and offered condolences to bereaved families, without actively addressing people’s grievances. Uttam and his wife have never raised Kodad people’s issues at any platform, instead spending their time in the town attending functions and cultural events without meeting the people.