Hyderabad: The upcoming Jubilee Hills bypoll is shaping up to be a high-stakes contest for the ruling Congress party, with multiple aspirants lobbying hard for the ticket. With former MP Mohammad Azharuddin recently nominated to the Legislative Council, the Congress leadership is now weighing other strong contenders for this prestigious Assembly segment.
According to party insiders, senior leader Mynampally Hanumanth Rao has emerged as one of the frontrunners. Hanumanth Rao, who carries decades of political experience and a strong base in the Greater Hyderabad region, is reportedly making a strong pitch to contest from Jubilee Hills.
Another prominent name in the fray is Naveen Yadav, son of late BRS leader P. Janardhan Reddy’s close aide. Yadav, who has been active in local politics, enjoys significant grassroots support in the constituency and is being projected by his supporters as a youth face who can consolidate the party’s hold in the area.
With both Mynampally and Naveen Yadav lobbying for the Congress ticket, sources say the party high command is keenly assessing electoral equations, caste dynamics, and ground-level support before finalizing its candidate.
The Jubilee Hills constituency, known for its urban voter base and political visibility, has often been seen as a prestigious seat for any party. The bypoll was necessitated following the vacancy, and opposition parties are also gearing up to field strong candidates.
Political observers say Congress will need to strike a fine balance between seniority and grassroots connect in choosing its nominee. While Mynampally Hanumanth Rao brings experience and stature, Naveen Yadav could energize the youth vote bank and strengthen the party’s local presence.
A decision from the Congress leadership is expected in the coming days, with both camps intensifying their lobbying efforts in Hyderabad and Delhi.
The outcome of this internal contest could have a significant impact not only on the Jubilee Hills bypoll but also on Congress’ broader urban strategy in Telangana ahead of future elections.
