The selection of BRS candidates from Khammam district has become a significant topic of discussion in political circles. In terms of the ruling party, BRS, Khammam is considered one of the weaker districts in Telangana. This assessment is particularly true for two segments: Paleru and Kothagudem, where the political situation is causing tensions within the BRS.
Ex-minister Tummala Nageswarao did not receive a ticket in the list of BRS candidates, leading to dissatisfaction among his relatives and followers in the joint district. Despite this setback, there’s a demand for Tummala to contest from Paleru. However, Kandala Upender Reddy, who was previously a Congress winner in Paleru, joined TRS and was assigned the role of in-charge for the BRS constituency.
This move seems to hinder Tummala’s political prospects within TRS. As a result, there’s speculation about Tummala’s future decisions, with his followers urging him to join the Congress party. On the other hand, Jalagama Venkata Rao’s situation differs slightly. The announcement of BRS ticket to Vanama Venkateswara Rao for Kothagudem effectively closed the door for Jalagam. In the 2018 elections, Vanama won as a Congress candidate and later joined BRS, while Jalagam contested as a BRS candidate.
Following the election, Jalagam filed a petition against Vanama, alleging that he submitted a false affidavit in the 2018 general election. Recently, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Jalagam, upholding his allegations against Vanama. Despite this legal victory, the Assembly authorities have yet to recognize Jalagam as an MLA.
Nevertheless, KCR announced Vanama as the BRS candidate from Kothagudem without taking these factors into account. Consequently, Jalagam’s followers have been pressuring him to join the Congress party. The political dynamics and decisions regarding candidate selection in Khammam district highlight the complexities and tensions within the BRS and its associated alliances.
