Telangana BJP targets graduate vote in MLC polls

The Telangana BJP is focusing on the Mahabubnagar-Rangareddy-Hyderabad Graduates' constituency, where nearly six lakh eligible voters could decide the outcome, The Hindu reports. The party plans an awareness and enrolment drive once the Election Commission issues the notification. Candidates contest without party symbols but receive official endorsement through 'B' forms.

Internal friction over ticket distribution has resurfaced, with debate over whether to favour long-serving loyalists or recent entrants, and whether candidates must be from the constituency. Leading aspirants include N.V. Subash, the party's chief spokesperson and grandson of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, and former state vice-president S. Malla Reddy, who cites a long association with the party.

A panel led by state president N. Ramchander Rao, Union Minister G. Kishan Reddy, and Rajya Sabha member K. Laxman will shortlist candidates before seeking central approval. The final decision may be influenced by Congress and BRS nominees. Mr. Rao said the ticket will go to the winning candidate.