Hyderabad: Telangana Jagruthi is likely to enter the electoral arena even before formally transforming into a political party. Reports suggest that the organisation is preparing to contest the upcoming municipal elections by fielding candidates as independents under a common symbol. Initially, Telangana Jagruthi was expected to limit its participation to the Nizamabad municipal elections, but the plan has reportedly expanded following pressure from supporters and activists.
Sources indicate that Kalvakuntla Kavitha is strategising to field candidates in around 20 to 30 wards in each municipality. Meetings with aspirants have reportedly been held at her residence in Hyderabad, and there is speculation that candidate announcements could be made even before the official election notification. Telangana Jagruthi is said to be keen on demonstrating its organisational strength, with the Forward Bloc party’s ‘Lion’ symbol emerging as a likely common symbol for the contest.
According to government indications, elections to 117 municipalities and six corporations are expected to be held in February, with voter list preparation already underway. In this backdrop, several Telangana Jagruthi representatives, Telangana movement activists, Kavitha’s followers and those disenchanted with the BRS are likely to enter the fray as independent candidates. Kavitha is expected to support their campaigns and may also take part in electioneering as part of her ongoing public outreach.
After parting ways with the BRS, Kavitha is reportedly viewing the municipal elections as an opportunity to test public response and assess her support base. With some of her supporters having tasted success in recent panchayat elections, Telangana Jagruthi leaders believe that strong performance in the municipal polls could provide momentum for a future political launch and help position the group as a potential political force ahead of the Assembly elections.