Telangana Election: TDP Opts Out, Pawan Kalyan the only face from Andhra
Although not contesting in Telangana, Pawan Kalyan remains a crucial 'Andhra' face in the state's political landscape.
Hyderabad: The 2023 Telangana Assembly elections mark a departure from previous contests, notably with the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) abstaining.
This decision stems from the recent arrest of TDP leader N. Chandrababu Naidu in Andhra Pradesh, prompting the party’s sidelining in Telangana.
Historically, TDP’s absence is unprecedented since the state’s bifurcation.
The move is expected to influence the Congress versus ruling BRS (formerly TRS) dynamic, as the TDP’s traditional voters may align with the Congress.
While Naidu’s exclusion is significant, the entry of Jana Sena Party’s Pawan Kalyan adds a twist.
Despite originally planning to contest 32 seats independently, Kalyan accepted eight seats following BJP’s intervention.
Although not contesting in Telangana, Kalyan remains a crucial ‘Andhra’ face in the state’s political landscape.
His alliance with TDP in Andhra Pradesh and potential campaign for BJP candidates could impact the electoral narrative.
Meanwhile, the YSR Telangana Party’s decision not to contest eases pressure on Congress, as Y.S. Sharmila aims to avoid obstructing Congress’s path to counter the ruling BRS.
