The Shadnagar Assembly Constituency is currently witnessing a fierce political contest, with three prominent candidates from the Backward Class (BC) community vying for the support and votes within the BC quota. This unique and closely watched electoral battle involves a trio of BC contenders, making it a central focus of the forthcoming elections.
The pivotal question in this exceptional political scenario is: who will emerge as the frontrunner to secure the BC quota votes?
Anjaiah Yadav: A “Hat-Trick” Contender
Anjaiah Yadav, a member of the Yadava community, is no newcomer to the world of electoral contests. In this fourth bid, he is looking to secure a BC category seat. Despite a setback in 2009, he triumphed in the 2014 election, earning him the opportunity to represent his constituents. Yadav is campaigning on the back of a track record marked by substantial contributions to development programs. His support for government initiatives such as Rythubandhu and old-age pensions in rural areas has bolstered his reputation. Known as a leader with widespread cross-caste appeal, his ability to secure support from BC voters is set to play a pivotal role in this three-way competition.
Veerlapalli Shankar: Striving for Success
Veerlapalli Shankar’s relentless pursuit of a political ticket began when the constituency transitioned to a general category in 2009. Disappointment marked his past three electoral endeavors, including the previous election, where he contested as a Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) candidate. This time, he has assumed a leadership role within the Congress Party, determined to secure a seat on its behalf. A significant turning point occurred when several influential leaders, including former MLA Pratap Reddy, ZPTC members Tandra Vishala and Venkatarami Reddy, Nandigama MPP Priyanka, Kothur joint Mandal MPP Sivashankar Goud, and former ZPTC Shyamsundar Reddy, threw their support behind Shankar. As a member of the Rajaka community, Shankar’s prospects for success rely on his ability to attract BC votes and secure support within this social class.
Ande Babaiah: A Senior Leader Enters the Arena
Ande Babaiah, a seasoned political figure hailing from the Mudiraj community, has secured a BJP ticket after defeating three leaders from the “Reddy” community. As a prominent member of the BC social class, he is poised to secure a significant share of the vote, particularly from the Mudiraj community and the BC quota. The delay in BJP’s ticket distribution has posed challenges to his campaign, already in motion by his opponents in the Congress and BRS parties. To realize his electoral objectives, Babaiah’s team must dedicate substantial efforts. Additionally, the critical question remains whether he can garner the support of political figures like Palamuru Vishnuvardhan Reddy and Sri Vardhan Reddy, who were left without a ticket.
With all three candidates vying for BC quota votes, the Shadnagar Assembly Constituency is experiencing an intense political battle, and the results will determine which leader secures the majority of BC support in the region.
Voter Statistics:
As of October 31, the Shadnagar Assembly Constituency comprises a total of 225,470 voters across six mandals: Farooq Nagar, Kottur, Nandigama, Keshampet, Kondurgu, and Chaudharyguda mandals. Notably, 651 new voter applications have been submitted, indicating an increase of 14,000 voters in this election compared to the previous one. Among the existing voters, there are 101,382 males and 111,583 females, along with 15 transgender voters. The forthcoming elections will be a crucial test of political strength in the region, particularly within the BC quota.
