TDP’s Governor Quota MLCs: Rewarding Loyalty & Hard Work?

It is reported that the government has prepared proposals to fill two vacant MLC seats under the Governor’s quota. Opportunities are being provided to one candidate each from the SC and BC communities.

Sources say say the proposed names are TDP Politburo member Varla Ramaiah and Dalavai Ramadevi—the president of the TDP Anantapur Lok Sabha constituency Anganwadi Association—from the Rayalaseema region.

These names are likely to be officially announced soon.

The selection is really unique because Varla Ramaiah is a TDP Loyalist and finally got his due.

He has remained a committed party worker through multiple election cycles and opposition periods. This nomination rewards experience and dedication.

He was promised Rajya Sabha seat on a couple of occasions but could not be accommodated due to various reasons.

He contested the 2009 elections from the Tirupati Lok Sabha constituency on a TDP ticket.

It was kind of risky because a native of Krishna district, Ramaiah was airdropped in Tirupati at the last minute. But he did not refuse the High Command.

Varla almost scraped through, but the last round of counting gave a thumbs up to Dr. Chinta Mohan, with the Praja Rajyam Party’s V. Varaprasada Rao playing spoilsport.

Again in 2014, he was given Pamarru ticket, but lost to YSR Congress candidate, Uppuleti Kalpana by a slender margin of 1,069 votes.

Though not an impressive orator, Varla has good subject and frequently represents TDP in press meets, legal issues, and public debates.

This skill set is likely to help the party in the Legislative Council for debates.

Giving a seat to Dalavai Ramadevi is rewarding a commoner. It will also improve the image of the party among the General Public.