MLC Polls: All Eyes On Anuradha!

The MLC polls have been taken seriously by both the ruling YSRCP and opposition TDP. In a last minute shocker to YSRCP, TDP has fielded its candidate Panchumarthi Anuradha in the MLA quota MLC. Originally, the ruling YCP which has a majority in the Assembly wanted to clean-sweep this. But unexpectedly, TDP fielded its candidate. Anuradha filed the nomination for MLC and the election is going to take place on March 23, 2023.

It can be noted that YSRCP won 151 MLA seats whereas TDP won 23 MLAs in 2019. TDP’s MLAs Vallabhaneni Vamsi (Gannavaram), Karanam Balaram (Chirala), Vasupalli Ganesh (Vizag South) and Maddala Giri (Guntur West) have switched their loyalties and are supporting the ruling YCP. Even Janasena MLA Rapaka is also supporting YSRCP. This is a huge setback to opposition. So, TDP strength is limited to 19. Considering this, YCP wanted to clean-sweep the total 7 MLC seats in MLA quota. For an MLC to win, 22 to 23 MLA votes are needed.

However, surprisingly, YCP MLA and former minister Anam Ramanarayan Reddy is expected to support the TDP’s Anuradha. Besides this, another YCP rebel MP Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy is also expected to back the TDP’s MLC candidate. So, TDP needs another 1 or 2 MLAs to get the required majority for the victory of its candidate Anuradha who is from weaker sections.

Meanwhile, TDP is going to issue whip to all its MLAs including the 4 rebel MLAs. If anyone violates the whip, TDP wants to formally complain to the Election Commission. Overall, the MLC elections in AP turned significant.