As the elections for the Andhra Pradesh state assembly draw near, the social media wings of the ruling YSR Congress party and the opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP) are intensifying their efforts to discredit each other.
Rather than highlighting the virtues and advantages of their respective parties, these social media activists are focused on spreading various rumors to create confusion among the cadre of rival parties and tarnish the image of their opponents.
The latest rumor, seemingly propagated by YSRCP social media activists, suggests that the TDP leadership is selling its party tickets to affluent individuals, including NRIs who hold influence in the party.
According to this rumor, a US-based NRI named Dr. Gururaj, whose father is based in Banaganapalle, Kurnool district, is allegedly playing a significant role in selecting TDP candidates from wealthy NRIs.
The rumor suggests that Gururaj is collecting cash from NRI ticket aspirants on behalf of the TDP, promising them tickets in constituencies that were initially designated for Backward Classes.
This alleged practice has reportedly angered TDP leaders and cadre who have been working tirelessly for the party's revival. They strongly oppose the idea of NRI quota seats being sold to outsiders, referred to as "paratroopers" in the social media rumors.
TDP leaders, who invested significant personal funds in initiatives such as Lokesh's Yuva Galam padayatra and other party programs, are now expressing discontent against the TDP leadership. There are claims that Gururaj, who previously played a role in securing a seat for Lokesh in a prestigious US university, is now influencing candidate selection in multiple constituencies.
According to the social media reports, the TDP leadership is seeking candidates who can contribute substantial funds to the elections, rather than those who have remained loyal to the party. The reports suggest a potential revolt among the TDP cadre in various constituencies like Tatikonda, Tamballapalle, Kavali, Udayagiri, and Sullurpet.
The reports also claim that the TDP cadre, initially instructed to support Jana Sena, is now being directed to back cash-rich leaders selected by the party's high command. These reports are likely affiliated with the YSRCP.
