Naidu’s political journey started in 1978 when he contested from Chandragiri on a Congress ticket. He swiftly rose by the ranks, changing into one of many youngest ministers in T Anjaiah’s cupboard in 1980.Nonetheless, his life took a flip in 1980 when he married Bhuvaneswari, the daughter of legendary actor N T Rama Rao.
The emergence of Telugu Desam Occasion (TDP) in 1982, led by NTR, modified the political panorama of Andhra Pradesh. After going through defeat in 1983, Naidu jumped ship and joined TDP, shifting focus to the Kuppam constituency in Chittoor district, securing his maiden victory right here in 1989.
Naidu has now been the MLA of Kuppam for 35 years, serving thrice as CM between 1995-2004 and 2014-2019. Nonetheless, the 2024 elections current a essential problem for him each on the state degree and in his very personal constituency.
After YSRCP lowered TDP to only 23 seats within the 2019 elections, they set their sights on unseating Naidu in Kuppam. The ruling get together’s focus intensified after chief minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy entrusted minister Peddireddy Ramachandra Reddy with the duty of ending Naidu’s successful streak. YSRCP launched the “Why not Kuppam” slogan and fielded MLC KRJ Bharat in opposition to Naidu, backed by native help.
Bharat, the son of former IAS officer Okay Chandramouli, emerged as Naidu’s strongest contender, with the direct backing of the CM and minister Ped direddy Ramachandra Reddy.
In response, Naidu coined “Bangaru Kuppam” to counter the marketing campaign — ‘Bangaru’, a time period of endearment to check with somebody beloved. He appointed MLC Kancherla Srikanth to deal with constituency points and thwart opposition methods.
Breaking from custom, Naidu personally campaigned on this election, supported by his spouse, Nara Bhuvaneswari, who joined him on the marketing campaign path to safe his eighth consecutive victory in Kuppam.
As polling day approaches, each events are leaving no stone unturned. The YSRCP goals to dethrone Naidu, whereas Naidu goals to safe a majority of 1 lakh votes, having seen his vote share decline drastically within the 2019 elections.
“The individuals of Kuppam have been my power and inspiration by my political journey,” Naidu mentioned at a current marketing campaign rally. “Their belief and help have been unwavering, and I’m dedicated to persevering with to serve them with dedication and integrity.”
In the meantime, Bharat ex pressed confidence in reference to the voters. “Kuppam deserves efficient illustration and actual change. I’m right here to be the voice of the individuals and deal with their considerations head-on,” he declared passionately, emphasising his dedication to convey a couple of constructive change within the constituency.
Amid the marketing campaign fervour, each events should not solely specializing in mobilising supporters but in addition on reaching out to undecided voters. With door-to-door campaigns, public rallies, and social media blitzes, each effort is being made to sway the voters of their favour.
Including to the drama, Kuppam’s residents categorical combined emotions. “We’ve seen Naidu’s lengthy reign, however now it’s time for change,” says a neighborhood vendor, capturing the sentiment of many. However, a retired schoolteacher defends Naidu, stat ing, “He’s introduced improvement to our area. Why repair what’s not damaged?”
Native companies are abuzz with discussions in regards to the upcoming election. “This election will determine the destiny of our city for the subsequent few years,” says a store proprietor, echoing the feelings of many residents who see the election as a pivotal second in Kuppam’s historical past.
Whereas the candidates commerce barbs and guarantees, the individuals of Kuppam are weighing their choices rigorously. “I’ve at all times supported Naidu, however this time, I’m not so positive,” says a farmer, reflecting the uncertainty that pervades the voters.
With simply days left till the election, because the candidates make their closing push and the voters put together to solid their ballots, one factor is for certain — Kuppam is on the centre of consideration, and the result of this election will reverberate far past its borders.
