Proddatur, March 08: The changing political scenario with respect to MLC elections in Proddatur and Jammalamadugu constituencies has prompted betting in the region which is known for its notorious betting practises.
Former MLA N Varadarajulu Reddy who had left Congress in favour of Jagan Mohan Reddy has returned back to the party. He would be facing tough contest from Jammalamadugu MLA C Adinarayana Reddy’s brother and former DCCB chairman C Narayana Reddy. The latter is contesting as independent with the backing of Jagan’s group.
Both the contestants are from Proddatur and Jammalamadugu constituencies. MPTC and ZPTCs of the two constituencies have become prime target of both the political groups. Camp politics and horse trading has picked up momentum in the district.
In Proddatur constituency, there are 29 MPTCs and three ZPTCs. Out of which Congress has a share of twenty-one. The remaining 10 belong to TDP, but their loyalties are divided.
Some of them are with TDP MLA M Linga Reddy while others owe allegiance to MV Ramana Reddy, who joined hands with Jagan. His MPTCs are sure to vote for Jagan group’s candidate C Narayana Reddy. Those with M Linga Reddy are tightlipped about whom they would vote for. As of now, Congress MPTCs seems to be with Varadarajulu Reddy, but whom they will really vote for, is anybody’s guess.
Now the question is to whom the MPTCs and ZPTCS loyal to TDP MLA M Linga Reddy will cast their vote for.
In the past, Linga Reddy, on several occasions had complained against Varada for indulging in breach of protocol.
With Linga Reddy not showing any interest in MLC elections, MPTCs on his side seem to be keen on casting their vote for C Narayana Reddy popular as Devagudi Narayana Reddy. If Varadarajulu wins the MLC elections, he will be gaining a political life, which has also put Linga Reddy in dilemma and could be one reason for his tactical silence, political observes say.
In Jammalamadugu Constituency, there are 69 MPTCs and 6 ZPTCs of which Congress has 45 MPTCs and 5 ZPTCS, all of whom are Jagan loyalists. Hence, there is clear margin for C Narayana Reddy in the constituency.
Further, there are chances of TDP MPTCs resorting to cross voting.
–Agencies