In Andhra Pradesh, as the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections approach, many political leaders are switching parties. The YSRCP has seen several high-profile exits recently, causing concern within the party.
One prominent figure, MLC Dokka Manikya Varaprasad Rao, was disappointed after the party chose to field someone else in his constituency. Rumors suggest he may join the TDP or Congress. Another party MLC, Md Iqbal, resigned from his post last week, citing personal reasons. Speculation is rife that he may join the TDP.
In Anantapur district, former Minister Samanthakmani and her son Ashok left the YSRCP this week. Samanthakmani had hoped for a party ticket in Singanamala. Her daughter, former MLA Yamini Bala, also resigned from the party recently.
There was also dissent within the TDP camp, as YSRCP rebel MP K Raghu Ramakrishna Raju was given an Assembly ticket by Chandrababu Naidu. This decision led to protests from supporters of the sitting MLA who was originally given the ticket.
Opinion polls for Andhra Pradesh have shown conflicting results. The India Today ‘Mood of The Nation’ Survey predicted that the YSRCP may only win eight seats in the Lok Sabha elections, while the TDP+ alliance could win 17 seats. In contrast, TIMES NOW’s-ETG Research survey suggested that the ruling party could retain 21-22 seats, while the TDP-JSP-BJP alliance may only secure 3-4 seats.
