Chittoor Mayoral Race: TD Banks On Electoral lead, YSRC On local Grievances

The alliance is banking on the 2024 assembly election results, development works and its candidate Kathari Hemalatha’s local network. The YSRC, represented by former deputy mayor R Chandrasekhar, is counting on voters affected by road widening and its traditional support base.

TD MLA Gurajala Jagan secured a majority of 14,604 votes in the assembly constituency in 2024, including a 11,500-majority in Chittoor city. NDA leaders believe road widening, urban development and improved governance over the past two and a half years will help retain this advantage.

Hemalatha, a former mayor, is banking on her political network across the corporation’s 60 divisions. Her supporters expect women, members of the Ediga community to which she belongs, and sections of the Balija community to back her. Her experience as mayor and contacts across party lines are also seen as advantages.

The alliance must, however, address discontent among its leaders who aspired to get the mayoral ticket. Jagan Reddy is trying to persuade them to support Hemalatha, assuring them of suitable recognition in the party and government. The participation of former MLA, CK Babu’s supporters could strengthen the alliance campaign.

The YSRC is seeking to make road-widening a major election issue, arguing that the people who suffered losses during the works could turn against the ruling alliance. It is also counting on support for Chandrasekhar among the Vannekula Kshatriya community.

The previous corporation elections could also figure in the campaign. The TD had accused the YSRC of intimidation and irregularities in the nomination process. The YSRC, in turn, is seeking to highlight alleged intimidation and threats by alliance leaders during the current election process.