ABV Preaches Money-Free Polls: Seeks Public Funds

AB Venkateswara Rao Seeks Campaign Funds

Former IPS officer AB Venkateswara Rao wants to fight the Vijayawada Mayor election without distributing money to voters. Yet, his appeal for public donations to fund his campaign has become a major talking point, particularly in the context of his declared assets reportedly exceeding Rs 22 crore.

Rao has shared QR codes and bank account details to collect public contributions, saying he depends on agriculture and pension income. His supporters may view this as an attempt to run a campaign without relying on money power. However, the contrast between his declared wealth and his appeal for donations is difficult to ignore. With the mayoral candidate’s expenditure ceiling set at ₹25 lakh, the fundraising drive places financial transparency at the centre of his campaign.

The controversy deepened after Rao alleged that money was being demanded for Corporator seats, with prices ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 70 lakh. He said he would not distribute money to secure votes and would instead seek public support on the strength of his vision for Vijayawada. These allegations have not been independently established, but they bring the issue of money in local politics into sharp focus.

Tax Relief and Drinking Water promises:

Rao has promised to keep property tax rates unchanged for three years, halt annual 15% increases and ensure a regular drinking water supply. He has also pledged to protect wholesale and retail traders, small shopkeepers and street vendors by creating designated vending zones without obstructing traffic. These are issues that directly affect Vijayawada residents. The city’s proximity to the Krishna River and Prakasam Barrage makes reliable drinking water an especially important civic concern. Likewise, property taxes and the livelihoods of small traders are matters on which voters can judge any mayoral candidate’s performance.

The Political Contradiction:

Rao’s campaign also carries a political edge, with his criticism of Chandrababu Naidu and the ruling alliance drawing attention. His opponents have questioned his political positioning, particularly given the support he received from TDP leaders during his service-related disputes under the previous YSRCP government.

But the immediate issue is his campaign’s central claim: that elections should be fought on ideas rather than money. If Rao wants to make financial integrity the defining message of his campaign, transparency over public donations and a clear account of how every rupee is spent will be essential. His promises on taxes, water and traders give voters a concrete agenda to assess. His handling of campaign funds will be another important test of that message.