CPI warns Congress over Kothagudem seat, cadres confused

CPI State secretary and Kothagudem MLA Kunamneni Sambasiva Rao has publicly warned Congress against ignoring his party, widening the gap between the two allies in the Kothagudem Assembly constituency. Addressing a rally during the ‘Praya Chaitanya Yatra’ at Pinapaka, Rao said Congress must come to power in the next elections but should not take advantage of CPI’s support, which is aimed at keeping the BJP out of Telangana.

Telangana Today reports the MLA’s ire is believed to be directed at Revenue Minister Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, who represents Palair. Sources said the Minister has been building his support base in Kothagudem and may contest the seat in the next elections, irking the CPI MLA.

The CPI is also acting independently to boost cadre morale ahead of the upcoming SCCL recognised trade union elections. Cadres of both parties are left confused by the alliance partners’ public spat.