Epaper
As political activity in Andhra Pradesh gathers pace ahead of the local body elections, the Vizianagaram Zilla Parishad (ZP) chairperson post has emerged as a possible flashpoint in the rivalry between senior YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) leader Botsa Satyanarayana and his nephew Majji Srinivasa Rao, popularly known as Chinna Srinu, who recently joined the Telugu Desam Party.
According to sources, the YSRCP leadership is considering fielding Botsa Anusha, daughter of Botsa Satyanarayana, for the Vizianagaram Zilla Parishad chairperson post instead of his wife, Botsa Jhansi.
The move is being seen as part of the party’s efforts to retain its influence in the district and counter the political challenge posed by Chinna Srinu.
Botsa Satyanarayana had reportedly been considering introducing his daughter Anusha into electoral politics by fielding her for the ZP chairperson post.
However, Chinna Srinu was also said to be interested in securing the same position for his daughter, Siri Sahasra.
The competing ambitions reportedly created differences within the YSRCP, with Chinna Srinu eventually concluding that his daughter might not get the opportunity within the party.
The Vizianagaram Zilla Parishad chairperson post has now been reserved for a Backward Classes (BC) woman, making it relevant to the candidature being considered by the YSRCP.
The proposed candidature is being interpreted in political circles as an attempt to challenge Srinivasa Rao in the very post that is believed to have contributed to his decision to leave the YSRCP.
By choosing a candidate from the Botsa family, the party leadership is said to be aiming to consolidate its support base in the district while countering the influence of its former leader.
Chinna Srinu has long been an influential political figure in Vizianagaram district. His move to the TDP has added a new dimension to the local political contest, particularly because of the reported interest of his daughter, Siri Sahasra, in the ZP chairperson post.
The YSRCP reportedly believes that Anusha’s candidature could pose a strong challenge to Siri Sahasra if the latter enters the race on behalf of the ruling alliance.
However, the final candidates from both sides are yet to be formally announced.
