The TDP appears to have adopted a more aggressive approach in local body elections, signalling that it is prepared to follow tactics it has previously accused the YSRCP of using. While Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu continues to speak about political values, allegations have surfaced that party leaders and workers are pursuing their own strategies on the ground. Critics are now questioning whether Naidu himself has adopted a tougher approach.
The issue of unopposed victories has become a major talking point. Unlike North Andhra and the coastal districts, where similar allegations have not gained much traction, Rayalaseema has witnessed claims of obstacles to nominations. The region remains politically significant for the YSRCP, which retained a substantial vote share there despite losing the Assembly elections.
The TDP appears to have concentrated its efforts on Kadapa, Anantapur, Chittoor and Kurnool, districts considered important to the YSRCP. Unopposed victories have reportedly been recorded in municipal chairperson posts, wards and MPTC seats. The number of such victories could have been higher had the Supreme Court not issued its directions, according to political observers.
These developments have reportedly caused disappointment among YSRCP leaders and workers, raising questions about the party’s ability to regain momentum. In recent months, the party had highlighted the crowds at Jagan Mohan Reddy’s public tours as evidence that his popularity remained strong, with supporters claiming that the ruling alliance was concerned about his political resurgence.
The TDP’s reported focus on areas considered YSRCP strongholds has added to the debate over the opposition’s actual strength. However, unopposed victories alone do not necessarily establish the level of public support, particularly where allegations about the nomination process have been raised.
The controversy has also prompted discussion within TDP circles. While Naidu has faced allegations in the past that irregularities were handled discreetly, critics now claim that the party’s approach has become more overtly aggressive.
Separately, reports that TDP workers obstructed nominations in some constituencies allocated to Jana Sena under the alliance arrangement have caused concern. The situation reportedly eased after Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan pressed Naidu on the issue.