BRS in Khammam has always been weak, even during its prime, and the party’s situation has worsened further in the Opposition. Despite the state bifurcation, little has changed in the district, where Andhra political influence has kept BRS on the back foot.
In 2014, the party failed to win any seat in the district. By 2018, it managed only one out of ten seats. In the most recent elections, BRS secured just one win in Bhadrachalam, but even that MLA has now joined Congress, leaving the party without ground.
Some weaknesses that went unnoticed while in power are now coming to light. While BRS leaders in other districts are regrouping after the 2023 setback and taking on the Revanth Reddy Government, the party in Khammam is unable to hold a strong Opposition presence.
Congress remains firm with leaders like Bhatti Vikramarka, Tummala Nageshwara Rao, and Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy holding top positions. Interestingly, both Tummala and Ponguleti were once part of BRS but were pushed out before the 2023 elections. Their shift turned the tide decisively in favour of Congress.
They are steadily drawing smaller leaders and BRS cadres into Congress, further weakening the pink party. Local workers now fear that BRS may not even pose a minimum challenge in the upcoming local body elections, raising concerns about its survival in the district.
At present, there are no leaders defending the party or questioning the ruling government in Khammam. Party cadre are urging Working President K Taraka Ramarao to urgently turn his attention to the district before things slip beyond recovery.
