GHMC Election: Will KTR’s Strategy Work?

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections are set to take place later this year. This poll holds great political importance, as Hyderabad remains the economic heart of Telangana.

Despite its loss in the 2023 Assembly elections, the BRS performed exceptionally well in the GHMC region, where Andhra Settlers play a crucial role in deciding outcomes.

The Congress failed to win even a single seat in this area, while the BJP secured just one—Goshamahal. Now, the BRS is aiming to repeat its success, banking on support from Andhra settlers and educated urban voters dissatisfied with Hyderabad’s deteriorating infrastructure.

Political observers believe BRS is using the recent Marwadi controversy to influence traditional Telangana voters and residents of the Old City. It’s being seen as a calculated move to retain their grip in Hyderabad.

HYDRAA recently issued notices to the Fatima Owaisi Educational Campus in Chandrayangutta, allegedly built within the full tank level (FTL) of Salkam Cheruvu. The campus is linked to the Owaisi brothers.

BRS suspects this action is part of Congress’s strategy to align MIM with them in the GHMC polls. According to BRS, MIM may join hands with Congress to protect the educational campus.

To counter this, the BRS is trying to unite other vote banks in the Old City by leveraging the Marwadi issue. A win in GHMC would boost the party’s morale and send a message that Revanth Reddy’s government is losing public trust.

However, both Congress and BRS appear to be underestimating the BJP’s influence in urban Hyderabad. Known for its strength in cities, the BJP is actively backing the Marwadi community and could consolidate Hindutva voters through this controversy.

The GHMC covers 24 Assembly constituencies, making it a critical battleground. Ahead of it, the Jubilee Hills by-election will offer early signs of voter sentiment in the region.