Defecting BRS MLAs put KCR in a spot

NEW DELHI: The Congress party, having successfully lured around 10 legislators away from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), is now negotiating with additional legislators to further weaken the regional party. Sources within the BRS claim that current Chief Minister Revanth Reddy is engaging in “vendetta politics” to dismantle the BRS and consolidate his political dominance. According to BRS leaders, the motive behind this aggressive strategy is to expand Revanth’s political influence and secure a substantial majority for his position as chief minister. However, this approach, which includes subjecting opposition legislators to scrutiny by investigating agencies, may have jeopardised the prospects of BRS chief K.

Chandrashekhar Rao (KCR) and put him in a precarious position. P. Bhoopathi Reddy, who is considered close to KCR, stated, “If there are negotiations between the parties, it is unrelated to the protection of our legislators. Revanth Reddy’s actions are driven by revenge politics. No matter how many investigating agencies he deploys, it won’t make a difference. These investigations are ongoing, and we are not intimidated by them.”

Furthermore, there are discussions within the party about negotiating a deal with the BJP to counter the Congress in the state. Some reports suggest that the BJP is seeking a merger with the BRS to expand its political base in the state and gain experienced leaders who can manage political activities effectively. Conversely, some leaders believe KCR might negotiate an arrangement where the BRS joins the NDA, thereby securing protection from the central ruling party. A political analyst noted, “KCR needs to secure his political future and that of his children. As Revanth aims to corner him, aligning with a power centre could be a strategic move. Although KCR’s party still commands significant voter support, it may not translate into seats. If a merger with the BJP occurs, it could substantially benefit the BJP in the southern state.”

To exert further pressure on BRS leaders, Congress in Telangana has reportedly signalled that funds necessary for ongoing projects and commitments might not flow as easily, potentially disrupting their work and affecting their obligations to contractors. A BRS leader commented, “During our tenure, our legislators made various commitments that require funding. Congress may have indicated that continued smooth functioning is contingent upon joining their party.”

The leader also noted, “Despite the anti-defection law stipulating disqualification if less than 66 per cent of members switch sides, the assembly speaker has yet to take action. Congress aims to bring in 26 BRS legislators, which could exempt them from disqualification.”

Another Congress spokesperson in Telangana criticised Revanth Reddy’s tactics, stating, “Revanth Reddy is engaged in vendetta politics similar to what the BRS did. Forcing leaders to join his party will likely result in a backlash.
The party may only last five years, after which the opposition could take over. Revanth’s approach is sending a negative message to both leaders and the public, who will not forget it.”