Chandrababu’s vice-like grip: BJP then.. Janasena now

In the political landscape influenced by TDP leader Chandrababu, individuals or parties connected to him are often manipulated or exploited for his own gain. In the past, the BJP faced challenges during the 2014 elections due to its alliance with TDP. Recently, Janasena, led by Pawan Kalyan, has also been ensnared by Chandrababu’s influence. Pawan Kalyan was used as a tool to negotiate and concede electoral seats as Chandrababu successfully re-routed BJP’s demand for seats, in the alliance, by cutting them from Janasena’s share. Subsequently, Chandrababu devised a strategy to betray Pawan Kalyan, thereby shocking his supporters.

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Chandrababu repeats his 2014 masterplan, this time on Janasena

In the 2014 elections, Chandrababu initially announced an allocation of 5 Lok Sabha and 15 Assembly seats to the BJP in their alliance. However, he later reduced this allocation by 1 seat each. Subsequently, the BJP announced that they would contest in 14 assembly seats, but TDP countered by claiming 1 seat from them. This move surprised the BJP, especially as TDP leaders were eventually given official B Forms in three assembly constituencies, indicating a shift in alliance dynamics.

Likewise, in the 2024 elections, as part of the alliance, Janasena was initially promised 24 Assembly and 3 Parliament seats. However, this allocation was reduced by 3 Assembly and 1 Lok Sabha seat. Consequently, Janasena ended up with 21 Assembly and two Lok Sabha seats. Notably, TDP leader Pulivarthi Ramanjaneyulu joined Janasena, and he has been nominated as the Bhimavaram Janasena candidate.

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Only 20 assembly seats for Janasena!

The Janasena party, from the outset, received fewer seats within the alliance, and Chandrababu further reduced their allotted seats. Currently, Janasena holds only 20 assembly seats, causing concern among its supporters. Pawan Kalyan, who initially stated that Janasena would contest in all 175 seats, ended up not contesting in at least 25% of them. Chandrababu, known for his past maneuvers against the BJP, has inflicted significant damage on Janasena this time. Consequently, Janasena is uncertain about potential further reductions in their remaining 20 seats. Analysts suggest that any alliance with Chandrababu could create psychological barriers for potential allies, leading to confusion and hesitation within Janasena’s ranks.