The TDP is facing the worst ever existential crisis these days. The party’s stock is falling by each passing day and the leaders are deserting the party in regular succession. There are deep fears that the party may not make a comeback in the 2024 elections. Given this situation, getting Lokesh Babu elected to the assembly is increasingly becoming a huge challenge.
If sources are to be believed, Chandrababu is now said to be looking for a safe seat for Lokesh. Lokesh had contested in 2019 from Mangalagiri and suffered a stunning defeat. Thus, he earned the dubious distinction of a CM’s son losing the straight election. So, this time, a safe seat is very important for his political survival.
The TDP boss tried for Hindupur seat, currently represented by brother-in-law Balakrishna. So, now Kuppam seems to be the only option for Lokesh. Kuppam has been a TDP citadel since 1983. Moreover, it is Chandrababu’s home turf and he has nurtured the constituency very well. So, Lokesh is likely to be given this seat in 2024. But, Chandrababu will have to look for another constituency. While finding a safe constituency for Chandrababu may not be difficult as he is a leader of stature and is popular in his own right.
But, the biggest doubt is whether Lokesh would be able to romp home from Kuppam. Already, the YSRCP is on the rise in Kuppam. It has done well in the municipal and panchayat elections. Even in the 2019 assembly elections, the YSRCP got more votes than usual and forced Chandrababu to trail behind in several rounds. On the other hand, there is a demand for bringing in Junior NTR into the party. At this rate, what will Lokesh do in Kuppam? Let’s wait and watch.
