Sr Cong leader V Hanumantha Rao wants to contest from Khammam

Hyderabad: Former Rajya Sabha member and Senior Congress leader V Hanumantha Rao has conveyed his intention to contest from Khammam in the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections.

Addressing the media at Telangana Bhavan in New Delhi on Sunday, he said, “I am determined to contest from the Khammam Parliament constituency, backed by the support of Congress workers and various public associations in the region.”

While reflecting on past leaders like Renuka Choudhary and Vengala Rao, who were not local to Khammam but succeeded, Hanumantha Rao said that being non-local should not be considered an impediment. He highlighted his contributions, including installing a statue of Rajiv Gandhi in Khammam during his tenure in the Rajya Sabha.

Expressing unwavering loyalty to the Gandhi family, he added, “I will remain devoted to the Gandhi family, including Rajiv Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi, until my last breath.”

Commenting on the party dynamics, he expressed discontent with the alleged blocking of his name by PCC President Bhatti Vikramarka for the Khammam seat, citing historical political support to Vikramarka.

Raising concerns about ticket distribution in the recent assembly elections in Khammam, Hanumantha Rao criticised the selection of candidates and the allocation of seats. He urged for fair treatment and recognition of his longstanding commitment to the party.

While acknowledging Rahul Gandhi’s efforts in the Bharat Jodo Nyaya Yatra, focusing on caste and BC, Hanumantha Rao voiced his hope for a fair opportunity in Khammam.

He pledged to work for Rahul Gandhi’s victory if he contests from Khammam or secure the seat with a significant majority if Rahul chooses not to contest.