YSRCP faces internal dissent in Agency areas

Despite securing a clean sweep in the recent general elections in the Agency areas of Visakhapatnam, the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) finds itself grappling with internal dissent arising from the re-division of districts and early candidate announcements. The simmering discontent, particularly within the Valmiki social class, threatens to overshadow the party’s electoral triumph. While YSRCP’s dominance in the Agency areas remained unquestioned, the hasty decision to announce candidates for the newly formed Alluri district has triggered factional conflicts. Valmiki community members have launched a silent protest, alleging their caste was disregarded in ticket allotments.
The party’s decision to appoint Goddeti Madhavi, former Araku MP, as the Araku MLA candidate and Kottigulla Bhagyalakshmi, current Paderu MLA, as the Araku MP candidate has drawn criticism. This move, involving seat-swapping within the same social group, has surprised many tribals, leading to protests in key areas like Hukumpeta, Aruku, and Paderu—Madhavi’s nomination as the Araku MLA candidate has faced particular opposition. Internal factions within the Valmiki community have expressed dissent through social media campaigns, questioning her suitability and advocating for local candidates.
Former tribal welfare minister Balaraju, a veteran politician with ties to the agency since 1989, has opted for silence concerning the recent ticket allotments. Balaraju maintains significant influence in the region despite switching parties throughout his career. Whispers about him potentially receiving both Paderu MLA and Araku MP tickets are swirling within the YCP circles. Meanwhile, Senior Minister Botsa Satyanarayana has hinted at the possibility of further changes and additions in ticket allotments before the final announcement. This cryptic statement has fueled speculation about Balaraju’s ticket prospects, with YCP sources in the agency suggesting his exclusion due to a survey-based approach that allegedly overlooks ground realities.
As the unfolding drama within YSRCP intensifies, all eyes remain fixed on the leadership’s next move and Balaraju’s subsequent response. Whether the party can quell the internal dissent and retain its stronghold in the agency areas will be answered in the coming days.