Congress uses Karnataka tactics to mollify rebels in Telangana
text_fieldsHyderabad: The Telangana Congress has apparently talked nine rebels out of contesting against party candidates in Assembly polls, however one has dug in his heel.
Where others decided not to contest against the party candidates, Sanjeev Reddy for Adilabad constituency refused to withdraw from the electoral fray.
Leaders were disgruntled at failing to obtain tickets to contest the polls and challenged the leadership.
Taking note of the situation heading towards a crisis, the Congress leadership stepped in to get everybody on board.
Modelling on its success in Karnataka, the Congress reportedly put in place teams to mollify rebel candidates, according to NDTV.
It is also reported that rebels have been offered other posts and opportunities in the general elections.
In one example there was reportedly high drama at Patel Ramesh Reddy’s residence when AICC national secretary Robit Chaudhary and senior Congress leader Mallu Ravi visited him.
Reddy already filed nomination for Suryapet constituency, and refused to withdrawn in favour of official candidate Ramreddy Damodar Reddy.
Patel Ramesh Reddy’s supporters attacked 73-year-old Mallu Ravi, while Reddy and his wife tearfully pleaded with the leaders to support his candidature.
Reddy finally withdrew from the race after he was offered an opportunity to contest parliament election.
A viral video earlier showed Reddy and his family breaking down when the list came out without his name in it again as in 2018.
In 2018 also Reddy was offered an opportunity to contest in Lok Sabha polls for Nalgonda.
Patel Ramesh Reddy turned to Congress from the Telugu Desam Party in 2018 along with Revanth Reddy.
As the deadline to withdraw nominations ends today, Telangana is getting ready for voting on November 30.