The YSR Congress Party is facing a difficult phase in the erstwhile West Godavari district. Party leaders describe the situation as being caught between limited options and growing internal dissatisfaction.
A major concern is the party leadership's handling of leaders from the Kapu community. Many leaders reportedly lack confidence in the party high command due to what they see as poor strategic decisions.
Several leaders who were once given opportunities are now leaving the party. Others have distanced themselves after feeling ignored despite years of dedicated work.
Alla Nani, who was elected MLA from Eluru in 2019, served as Deputy Chief Minister and Minister of Health and Medical Services. However, after the 2024 election defeat, he quietly exited the party.
Similarly, Grandhi Srinivas, a Kapu leader who defeated Pawan Kalyan in Bhimavaram, was not given adequate recognition. Alleged attempts by leaders from neighbouring constituencies to belittle him reportedly pushed him towards the same path.
In the crucial Palakollu constituency, critics say the party misread the ground reality. Despite strong Kapu voter influence, YSR Congress fielded leaders from the BC community, which drew criticism.
Former minister Kottu Satyanarayana, who served as in-charge of Tadepalligudem, is also believed to be dissatisfied. Observers feel he may take a similar route in the future.
Recently, Vadde Raghuram from the same community was given an opportunity in place of Kottu Satyanarayana. This move further added to the internal churn.
Despite holding the posts of Deputy Chief Minister and minister during the party's tenure, there are allegations that Kottu Satyanarayana failed to make effective use of the opportunity. After the 2024 defeat, he was reportedly sidelined for not preventing leaders from leaving the party.
Party cadre hope Kapu leaders will be retained as in-charges for the Narasapuram parliamentary constituency. However, speculation that the high command may continue with BC leaders has created further confusion.
Local leaders believe the high command itself appears uncertain about handling Kapu leadership in West Godavari. Cadre argue that priority should now be given to leaders who consistently worked for the party.
In the 2024 elections, West Godavari emerged as one of the eight districts where YSR Congress failed to open its account. The developments since then reflect the depth of the party's challenges in the region.