TDP suspects Ganta Srinivasa Rao’s allegiance

The Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has found itself embroiled in a contentious internal dispute as suspicions mount regarding the loyalty of former minister Ganta Srinivasa Rao. Rao’s alleged affiliations with leaders from rival parties have ignited concerns within the TDP leadership, particularly regarding potential cross-voting in the upcoming elections. Recent developments have seen the TDP leadership expressing unease over Ganta Srinivasa Rao’s close ties with leaders across various political spectrums, extending beyond party lines. There are apprehensions that Rao might lend support to his friend Botsa Satyanarayana’s wife, Jhansi, who is contesting as a Member of Parliament (MP) from the YSR Congress party.
During the 2019 elections, Ganta Srinivasa Rao contested from the Visakhapatnam North constituency, securing 67,000 votes, while TDP candidate M Sribharat received 60,000 votes. The narrow margin of defeat, by 4414 votes, led the TDP to speculate that cross-voting, possibly influenced by Rao’s associations, contributed to their loss. In a strategic maneuver, Ganta Srinivasa Rao announced his intention to contest under the newly formed Jai Bharat National Party, relinquishing his claim to the Visakhapatnam North seat and allocating it to the JanaSena instead. This decision has raised suspicions within the TDP leadership regarding potential external influences on Rao’s choices, particularly regarding seat allocation.
The TDP leadership remains apprehensive about granting Rao the Bheemili seat, fearing the risk of cross-voting in favor of Botsa Jhansi, the YSR Congress MP candidate. Additionally, with M. Sri Bharat as the TDP MP candidate, measures are being taken to prevent any instances of betrayal or cross-voting. Despite Rao’s request for the Bheemili seat, the TDP leadership has refrained from finalising the decision, citing concerns over potential repercussions. Considering the complexities surrounding Rao’s affiliations and potential cross-voting, the TDP leadership is contemplating allocating seats outside the Visakhapatnam constituency.
Anakapalli and Vizianagaram parliament seats have emerged as potential alternatives for seat allocation, should circumstances demand.