In the heart of Tirupati, the 1-kilometer stretch between Sri Krishnadevaraya Junction (Leela Mahal Circle) and the busy Nalugukalla Mandapam centre was a sea of supporters as they eagerly awaited a joint public address by TDP chief N. Chandrababu Naidu and JSP chief Pawan Kalyan. The bylanes along the road teemed with people right from 6 p.m., the air thick with excitement and anticipation.
The roadshow commenced an hour behind schedule as Mr. Naidu concluded an engagement in Punganur. Despite the delay, the enthusiasm of the crowd remained unabated as the leaders cheerfully waved to their supporters throughout the procession. However, the prominent junction experienced a couple of power outages, plunging the entire area into darkness. Leaders of the two parties denounced these incidents as ‘deliberate attempts’ to instill panic among the cadres.
Earlier in the day, two more corporators, M. Narayana and Gopal Yadav, joined the JSP, increasing the number of corporators representing the Municipal Corporation of Tirupati (MCT) who have abandoned the ruling YSRCP to six.
In his address, Mr. Pawan Kalyan leveled serious accusations against TTD Chairman Bhumana Karunakar Reddy, alleging that he had amassed wealth during his tenure. He exhorted the public, “If the YSRCP offers you cash in lieu of votes, accept the money but make sure you deposit it in the ‘Srivari Hundi.’ Do not hold on to the money as it is ill-gotten wealth.” He further promised that the NDA would “undo the injustice done to the constituency after coming to power.”
Similarly, Mr. Naidu urged the Tirupati voters to keep ‘thieves’ away from the temple city to safeguard its sanctity. He reminisced about his long-standing connection with the constituency, having been born and educated at SV University, and affirmed that he would never allow ‘unruly’ politicians to taint its reputation.
The roadshow culminated in a resounding display of unity between the TDP and JSP and highlighted the growing public discontent with the current administration. The massive turnout and enthusiastic reception accorded to the leaders demonstrated the increasing traction gained by the opposition alliance in Andhra Pradesh.
