A significant development is anticipated in Telangana’s political landscape with the appointment of a new Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Chief. Current PCC Chief and Chief Minister Revanth has confirmed this change, stating that he has requested the high command to consider new leadership. Revanth, who is currently in Delhi, is discussing the selection of the new PCC Chief, cabinet expansion, and filling of nominated posts with senior party leaders.
Despite multiple visits to Delhi and discussions with party leaders, consensus on names had not been reached previously. However, it is reported that Revanth is expected to return to Telangana with a finalized list this time. Although the cabinet expansion has been delayed, the appointment of the new PCC Chief is considered imminent. This has created significant anticipation within the party regarding the identity of the new PCC Chief.
YS-DS Formula: Historical Context
The YS Rajasekhar Reddy and D Srinivas combination is often cited as a successful pairing in the unified Andhra Pradesh Congress politics. When YS was the Chief Minister, D Srinivas was appointed as the PCC Chief by the high command. Under their leadership, the Congress party achieved a substantial victory in the 2004 elections and returned to power. In 2009, YS continued as Chief Minister with D Srinivas as PCC Chief, leading to another victory for the party.
There is a notion that D Srinivas was appointed to the PCC Chief position to counterbalance YS’s influence. Another argument suggests that giving the position to D Srinivas, a strong BC leader, was a strategic move to balance the power dynamics given YS’s position as a leader from the Reddy social group.
Current Discussions on PCC Chief
In the ongoing discussions about the new PCC Chief for Telangana, the YS-DS formula has resurfaced. If the high command decides to follow this formula, the possibility of appointing a BC leader as PCC Chief is being speculated due to Revanth’s Reddy social background. Names like Madhu Yashki and Mahesh Kumar Goud are being considered. Ponnam Prabhakar is also reported to be in the race for the BC slot.
Reports suggest that there may be friction between Revanth and Madhu Yashki, which could impact the final decision. If Revanth’s influence is to be controlled, the high command might lean towards Madhu Yashki. Conversely, if the decision favors granting Revanth full autonomy, he may propose Mahesh Kumar Goud as the new PCC Chief.
SC and ST Candidates in the Race
Additionally, candidates from SC and ST communities are also in contention for the PCC Chief position. Adluri Lakshman and Sampath from the SC community, and Balaram Naik from the ST community, are reported to be in the race. All three have good relations with Revanth. If the high command decides to select a PCC Chief from SC or ST communities, one of these candidates could have a strong chance.