HYDERABAD: Over the past decade since the formation of Telangana from Andhra Pradesh, the prestigious Secunderabad Lok Sabha seat has stood as a bastion for the BJP. The party has maintained a stronghold on the seat, emerging victorious in the two elections since.
The BJP’s rise to prominence traces back to the early ’80s when its candidate Bandaru Dattatreya, now the Governor of Haryana, lost to Congress’s T Anjaiah, a former Chief Minister of the undivided Andhra Pradesh, by a narrow margin of around 8,000 votes. However, the tide turned in 1991 when Dattatreya defeated Congress’s M Anjan Kumar Yadav with a significant margin, signaling the beginning of BJP’s dominance in a political landscape then monopolized by Congress. This victory, the sole BJP win among the state’s 42 seats, laid the groundwork for the party’s enduring influence in Secunderabad.
The BJP’s grip on the seat solidified after the formation of Telangana, with Dattatreya winning here in 2014 and later serving as a Union minister. G Kishan Reddy became the MP in 2019 and was appointed Minister of Tourism in the Modi cabinet, further establishing BJP’s position as a formidable force.
As the upcoming election approaches, Reddy, once again fielded by the BJP, navigates the political landscape with the expertise of a seasoned campaigner. Despite BJP’s track record and Modi’s enduring popularity, Reddy remains vigilant, recognizing the diverse demographics of the constituency.
In addition to national issues, Reddy’s campaign emphasizes the funds secured for Secunderabad’s development during his tenure as MP. Notably, the redevelopment of Secunderabad railway station and the expansion of Vande Bharat train services underscore his achievements.
Speaking to TOI, Reddy stated, “I never underestimate my opponents. However, I am confident in my prospects due to the groundwork I’ve laid and the nationwide Modi wave.” This sentiment reflects BJP’s confidence in retaining Secunderabad.
Nevertheless, challenges loom large as formidable opponents emerge. Congress’s choice of candidates, particularly the inclusion of incumbent Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagander, adds intrigue to the contest. Padma Rao Goud, a former minister and sitting BRS MLA, emerges as the party’s contender, poised to challenge BJP’s dominance in a constituency that has historically eluded BRS’s grasp.
Despite its traditionally bipolar nature, Secunderabad’s cosmopolitan population, including significant Muslim and Christian communities, keeps all candidates on edge. The stage is set for a three-cornered contest between BJP, BRS, and Congress on Monday.
