KURNOOL: After feeling hurt by the decision taken by the YSRC high command, Toguru Arthur, MLA of Nandikotkur (SC reserved) in Nandyal district, joined the Congress in Hyderabad on Tuesday, in the presence of APCC chief YS Sharmila. The YSRC had given the ticket to Sudheer Dhara of Kadapa, replacing sitting MLA Arthur.
"YSRCP Nandikotkuru MLA joined Congress. Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) chief Y S Sharmila Reddy welcomed Arthur into the party by putting a party scarf on him," an APCC press release said.
This decision was opposed by the YSRC rank and file, who suggested nominating a local candidate instead. However, their efforts went in vain. Interestingly, it was alleged that this decision was influenced by Sports Authority of AP Chairman Byreddy Siddhartha Reddy, despite Arthur’s positive track record in serving the people of his constituency.
Nandikotkur comprises six mandals, including Pagidiyala, Kothapalli, Pamulapadu, Jupadu Bunglow, Midthur, and Nandikotkur. It has a total voter strength of 2.5 lakh.
Despite being the deciding factor, the SCs do not have the freedom to contest elections on their own, alleged a follower of the sitting MLA. Arthur hoped that the people of his segment would understand the situation and support him in the polls.
Arthur, who had worked as a marshal in the legislative assembly of the erstwhile united Andhra Pradesh won the 2019 assembly election under a YSRCP ticket.
In the run-up to the legislative assembly and Lok Sabha polls scheduled in Andhra Pradesh on May 13, Arthur is one of several leaders who have quit the ruling YSRCP.
