YSRCP-supported candidates win 53 out of 66 sarpanch posts
C Pradeep Kumar
Vijayawada
As the general elections in Andhra Pradesh draw closer, the recently concluded panchayat by-elections have once again highlighted the robust presence and popularity of the ruling YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) across the State. This electoral exercise effectively debunked claims of anti-incumbency, underscoring the enduring support for Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s welfare initiatives.
Despite opposition parties, including the Telugu Desam, spearheading campaigns suggesting a wane in Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy’s public backing, the YSRCP emerged victorious in a resounding 53 out of 66 sarpanch elections. Moreover, in 30 instances, YSRCP candidates were elected unanimously, demonstrating their continued appeal to voters.
In the just-concluded panchayat by-elections, YSRCP supporters secured the majority of seats, delivering a resounding mandate for the party. Out of the 64 villages where sarpanch elections were held, YSRCP candidates triumphed in 23 contested seats, while 30 seats were uncontested victories. The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) secured 10 seats, and Jana Sena supporters won just one.
Among the 1,062 wards in Andhra Pradesh, 63 seats did not witness elections. However, of the 243 contested wards, the YSRCP clinched 149, with the TDP securing 90 and Jana Sena followers winning 4. When considering uncontested wins, YSRCP-backed candidates emerged victorious in 810 seats, with TDP supporters securing 182 and Jana Sena followers claiming 7. These results underscored that voters are unequivocally endorsing Chief Minister Jagan’s welfare initiatives.
Notably, the by-elections witnessed significant setbacks for the TDP, especially in its strongholds like Kuppam. Out of the six wards contested in Kuppam, five were won by YSRCP supporters. Upendra Reddy, a YSRCP supporter, secured victory in the Chalivendula panchayat election in the Hindupur constituency, which is represented by TDP MLA Balakrishna. This outcome further suggests that public sentiment favors the YSRCP. YSRCP supporters also secured wins in Peddapappur, the home mandal of JC brothers in the Tadipatri constituency, dealing a significant blow to the TDP.
Vijayawada MLA and State Planning Board Vice Chairman, Malladi Vishnu, emphasized that the YSRCP’s resounding success in the by-polls is a clear indication that the people firmly support Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s capable leadership. He asserted that those who vote in Panchayat elections are often reflective of national parliamentary elections, further underscoring the prevailing support for the YSRCP’s welfare-oriented governance.
