The local polls season in Andhra Pradesh will begin very soon. You can expect elections to all local bodies to start after Sankranthi. The State Election Commission plans to conduct the process in multiple phases across the state.
Panchayati, Municipal, MPTC, and ZPTC elections will happen in stages. This time, you may see EVMs used for the first time. Earlier, Andhra Pradesh always conducted local body polls using ballot papers.
The move follows instructions from the Central Election Commission. It asked all State Election Commissions to explore EVM usage. You are now seeing Andhra Pradesh preparing to implement that change.
At present, YSR Congress controls over 80 percent of local bodies. The party secured them after coming to power in 2019. TDP now wants fresh elections to reset the balance on the ground.
This will be the first election for YSR Congress after its 2024 defeat. You have seen party cadres gathering in large numbers when Jagan travels. He views this turnout as a sign of recovery.
However, you also notice that the same energy fades when Jagan is not around. On the ground, the organisation does not show consistent strength. This has raised doubts about YSR Congress contesting the polls.
There is growing talk that YSR Congress may boycott the elections. If that happens, you will see a major opening for TDP, Janasena, and BJP. They stand to capture a large share of local bodies.
This phase also gives Janasena a key opportunity. You know the party lacks strong cadre and leadership at the village level. These elections offer a chance to expand its local presence quickly.
Pawan Kalyan is using his Rural Development Ministry strategically. He is sanctioning funds for small village-level works. These projects usually help grassroots leaders build influence.
As a result, leaders from other parties are turning toward Janasena. Sarpanches, Ward Members, MPTCs, and ZPTCs from YSR Congress are showing interest. Access to development works is driving this shift.
However, Pawan Kalyan is being selective. You can see that he wants leaders with a clean image. Janasena is aiming to grow without damaging its credibility.

