An election at times decides a party’s future and also has an effect on individuals in the party. The victory and defeat of a candidate decides the political future of the key leader in that party. Generally, leaders who ensure the victory of their candidates are entitled to be promoted.
Minister KTR is the son of Telangana CM KCR. The ruling TRS has maintained that they would win more than 99 seats, which they won in 2016. If this happens, KTR’s charisma will definitely increase. On the contrary, it might delay KTR from taking over ‘key’ responsibilities in the near future.
During the 2016 elections, KTR took charge of the poll responsibility and campaigned extensively. The TDP too contested the elections in 94 divisions and managed to win in just one division. This led to the criticism of TDP general secretary Nara Lokesh and caused a dent to his political image. On the other hand, the TRS won in 99 divisions and KTR was elevated to the post of working president.
There are reports that KTR held regular meetings with a ‘Group of ministers’ (the opposition calls them as cabinet meetings). On the other hand, there is a campaign going on that after KCR goes to Delhi, KTR will be taking over the responsibility of KTR. He now has to prove himself as a municipal minister, TRS working president and son of CM KCR. Even if the party loses one seat less than the 99 seats and gets Mayor’s post, it will be the victory of the party technically, but the opposition parties would increase their attacks. The party gave seats to most of the sitting corporators and changed nine candidates. This election will be a challenge for KTR as the BJP is on the offensive after Dubbaka byelections. There is a controversy over flood relief and if the party wins 100 seats, there will be no other leader in the party to match KTR’s level.
It has to be said that it will be a big challenge for KTR to prove himself as a minister and party president to win Greater elections. If he loses even one seat the opposition will attack the party. If he wins more, he would play a ‘chief’ role. At the same time, discussions are on as to who is the bigger leader after KCR and KTR.
