The Congress party in Telangana may face difficulties in maintaining unity within its ranks, despite the selection of Anumula Revanth Reddy as the chief minister. Two other candidates for the top post, Uttam Kumar Reddy and Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, emphasized the importance of “loyalty” and their long-standing commitment to the party. They urged the party’s top leadership, including Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi, to consider their collective efforts in securing the state’s victory. The Congress party, which recently lost three out of four states in the elections, aims to maintain unity and curb dissent in the Telangana unit. To achieve this, Congress National General Secretary KC Venugopal emphasized the importance of collective leadership when announcing Revanth Reddy as the chosen candidate.
Uttam Kumar Reddy, the former president of the Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee, expressed his satisfaction with the party’s success in winning 64 out of 119 seats in the state. He highlighted his own electoral track record and years of loyalty to the party, stating that he has been elected seven times and served as a fighter pilot in the Indian Air Force. He also mentioned that their success in the combined district was a collective effort. Uttam Reddy affirmed his willingness to work with whoever the party ultimately decides on, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, electoral track record, stature, and credibility in the selection process.
Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, a three-time MLA and leader of the Congress Legislature Party, attributed the party’s victory in the state to the people’s support and the leadership of Rahul Gandhi. He assured that loyal party members would be seriously considered for any responsibilities and mentioned the positive impact of his 1,400-km march in the state. When asked about his relationship with Revanth Reddy and the possibility of working with him as the chief minister, Vikramarka stated that he would fulfill any role entrusted by the party and would discuss any concerns with the high command privately.
The victory in Telangana is significant for the Congress party, as it was achieved despite the strong support enjoyed by K Chandrashekar Rao, who had been ruling the state since its formation in 2014. However, this success was overshadowed by the party’s defeat in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Chhattisgarh.
