Dubbak dangal: Conflict and convergence of TRS and BJP – Prof K Nageshwar

The TRS and BJP are engaged in a no hold barred battle in Dubbak. Surprisingly, the TRS is concentrating its attack more on BJP than Congress. The BJP has succeeded in creating a perception that it is the main rival for the ruling party in Dubbak. A similar saffron war cry was heard even in Huzurnagar. But, the lotus never bloomed in that by-poll. Will it be a mere perception, or reality in Dubbak is something to be watched.

The BJP was early into the campaign mode. Congress was a late entrant. However, the party got a lease of life with the defection of Cheruku Srinivas Reddy from TRS only to become its candidate. But, the BJP Hungama is clouding the initial enthusiasm in the Congress camp.

The TRS is deliberately targeting BJP as if Congress is not at all in the picture. This is precisely where the interest of TRS and BJP not just conflict but converge. The BJP is vying for at least second position, surpassing Congress even if it fails to trounce the TRS. This will help the saffron party create a popular narrative that it will be the alternative for ruling TRS in 2023. Even if it fails to make it in 2023, such a strategy will help the BJP weaken the Congress, its main rival in national politics.

The TRS camp believes that any surge in the BJP vote will only help it by dividing the anti-establishment vote. Therefore the TRS is also keen on ensuring that the BJP gets more votes than Congress as the saffron party is no way nearer replacing TRS in state politics. This strategy will work for the TRS as long as BJP does not get strong enough to pose a challenge to its electoral fortunes. Thus, the Dubbak Dangal between TRS and BJP seem to be damaging the Congress interest more than anything else.

The triangular division of state polity will help the TRS as Telangana’s elections would be polarised for or against KCR. The BJP wants to wound the Congress before it hurts TRS for apparent reasons. The BJP can induct TRS into its fold but not the Congress in the national polity.

The BJP is attempting a similar strategy in Andhra Pradesh, too, as it focuses more on replacing TDP as the main opposition than dislodging YS Jagan.

• Prof K Nageshwar

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