Congress hoping for revival in AP

Since the bifurcation of the State, the Congress party in Andhra Pradesh has faced an arduous journey, spending a decade in the political wilderness. However, as the general elections loom, there’s a glimmer of hope for the party’s resurgence, albeit with cautious optimism. Political analysts anticipate a modest uptick in Congress’s performance in the upcoming elections, although expectations of substantial gains in seats remain tempered. Nonetheless, there’s a possibility of an increase in the party’s vote share, signaling a potential turnaround in its fortunes.
Under the leadership of Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief YS Sharmila, concerted efforts are underway to reconnect with the electorate. With the crucial elections on the horizon, Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy’s involvement in the Andhra Pradesh campaign adds momentum to Congress’s endeavours. Reddy is scheduled to address a public gathering in Visakhapatnam on March 16, underscoring the party’s determination to regain relevance in the region.
Historically, Andhra Pradesh was a stronghold for the Congress. However, the political landscape shifted drastically post-State bifurcation, with the emergence of Jagan Mohan Reddy’s party posing a formidable challenge. The exodus of cadres to the rival party weakened Congress’s organisational structure, making it increasingly challenging to maintain a foothold in Andhra Pradesh. The repercussions of the State’s division were starkly evident in the 2014 elections, where Congress suffered a humiliating defeat, failing to secure a single seat across 175 Assembly and 25 Lok Sabha constituencies in Andhra Pradesh. Subsequent disillusionment led to key leaders defecting to alternative parties, further exacerbating the party’s predicament.
Sharmila’s foray into Telangana politics through her party faced obstacles, prompting her eventual alignment with Congress in Andhra Pradesh. Despite initial reluctance from party stalwarts, her ascension to the role of PCC chief signalled a renewed commitment to revitalising Congress’s prospects in the State. The synergy between Sharmila and Revanth Reddy underscores a united front in Congress’s pursuit of electoral success. Their collaborative efforts aim to address pertinent issues such as the privatisation of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, the establishment of the Waltair railway zone, and the demand for special status for the State, resonating with the electorate’s concerns.