The ruling Telugu Desam Party has launched an intensive 60-day preparation strategy for the upcoming local body elections in Andhra Pradesh, scheduled for February and March. This comes despite the party's remarkable performance in the recent general and assembly elections where it achieved a 94% winning strike rate.
Identifying Weaknesses Across Polling Stations
In a significant revelation, the party leadership has identified that TDP performance was lacking in more than 6,000 polling stations across the state. This gap in grassroots presence has prompted the party high command to focus intensely on improving their position in these vulnerable areas ahead of the crucial local body polls.
During a recent teleconference with party leaders, TDP national general secretary Nara Lokesh emphasized that strengthening the party's position in lagging areas would be the top priority for all elected representatives and functionaries. This includes MLAs, MLCs, constituency in-charges, chairmen of various corporations, and other nominated post holders.
Different Ball Game: Local Body Elections
According to senior party functionaries, local body elections present a completely different challenge compared to assembly or general elections. The high command is particularly concerned about improving the party's foothold under every polling booth, recognizing that a poor performance in just one polling station could alter the entire election outcome in local bodies.
The pressure on the ruling party has intensified following their unprecedented victory in the recent assembly elections, where the NDA alliance won 164 out of 175 seats. The upcoming local body election results are being viewed as a litmus test for the government's two-year performance, making success crucial to avoid any negative public perception.
Accountability Measures for Underperformers
In a clear message to party legislators, Lokesh issued warnings to MLAs whose performance has fallen below expectations. He directed every MLA to maintain regular public presence and conduct grievance redressal programs consistently.
Approximately 50 MLAs, including two ministers, have been asked to provide explanations for their poor performance in key areas including grievance handling, participation in government programs, and distribution of pension and CMRF cheques.
Sources indicate that Lokesh delivered a stern warning that the party would not hesitate to replace non-performing MLAs, with every legislator's performance currently under assessment. He specifically instructed MLAs to demonstrate improved results in polling stations where the party is currently lagging.
Interestingly, even Lokesh's own constituency of Mangalagiri shows room for improvement. Despite securing a majority of over 90,000 votes, the party is lagging in 8% of polling stations within his constituency. Lokesh acknowledged that he is not exempt from this improvement drive and is working to enhance the party's prospects in Mangalagiri.
The 60-day plan formulated by zonal in-charges represents a comprehensive approach to address these challenges before the local body elections commence in February, setting the stage for what promises to be a closely watched political battle in Andhra Pradesh.
