TDP Again in Darshi Race!!

The political landscape in the Darshi constituency has become intriguing following the alliance between the Telugu Desam Party (TDP), Jana Sena, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Initially, the agreement between the TDP and Jana Sena allocated the Darshi seat to the latter, with strong insistence from the Jana Sena leaders.

While initially, it was proposed that both parties would jointly select a suitable candidate, the dynamics shifted due to an electoral understanding with the BJP, resulting in the TDP losing one seat and the Jana Sena forfeiting three seats in the state, including Darshi. This has sparked increased competition among hopeful candidates from the TDP for the Darshi ticket.

Although neither the TDP nor the Jana Sena has officially announced their candidates for Darshi, it is speculated that the TDP will field a candidate in the constituency. With the reduction of seats for Jana Sena, it is unlikely that they will seek another seat in the district.

Former minister Sidda Raghava Rao’s potential entry into the TDP has also stirred discussions. While some party leaders express reservations due to his previous defection to the YSRCP, others see potential benefits, particularly from the Arya Vaishya community. The TDP leadership, considering a candidate from the Arya Vaishya community for Markapuram, is giving priority to this aspect.

Reports suggest that Sidda Raghavrao is prepared to join the TDP along with Ongole MP Magunta Srinivasula Reddy, although TDP National General Secretary Nara Lokesh is reportedly opposed to admitting defectors. Additionally, former MLA Garatayya and YSRCP in-charge of Addanki, Krishna Chaitanya, are ready to join the TDP, further adding to the dynamics in the district.

Dr. Garatayya, known for his close ties with Chandrababu Naidu, is expected to wield influence in Parchur and Santhanoothalapadu constituencies along with Addanki, and is anticipating a ticket from Darshi. Similarly, Dr. Lakshmi, the granddaughter of former minister Gottipati Hanumantha Rao, is also hopeful for a ticket, adding to the complexity of the situation in the constituency.