HYDERABAD: The change of political loyalties by a majority of Opposition MLAs has put the ruling TDP in Andhra Pradesh and TRS in Telangana in the driver’s seat for the Rajya Sabha elections slated for June 11. For the first time after the bifurcation of the state, biennial elections will be held to the four seats in Andhra and two seats in Telangana.
The TRS will win the two seats from Telangana with ease as it has improved its strength to 88 MLAs in the 119-member Assembly. Besides, it will get the support of the seven MIM MLAs.
But an election will be unavoidable in Andhra as the Opposition YSRC is likely to field its candidate for one seat while TDP will win in three seats. According to sources, some more YSRC MLAs are likely to join the TDP which may field four candidates giving the YSRC the jitters.
Congress leaders Jairam Ramesh, V Hanumantha Rao and JD Seelam are retiring on June 21. However, with the party having no legislator at all in Andhra and a nominal strength in Telangana, there is no chance of them getting reelected to the House of Elders. In all probability, two of the retiring members Nirmala Seetharaman and Sujana Choudary (both Union ministers) might be re-elected from Andhra. The TDP is likely to give one seat to its alliance partner BJP.
Poll Schedule
Issue of notification: May 24 Last date for filing of nominations: May 31 Scrutiny of nominations: June 1 Last date for withdrawal: June 3 Date of polling: June 11