Voting for the Member of Legislative Council (MLC) elections has commenced today across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, with polling taking place between 8 AM and 4 PM. This election features several key constituencies, including one for Graduates and two for Teachers.
Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu, cast his vote at the Mandal Parishad Upper Primary School located at polling booths 284 and 284A in Undavalli. He was accompanied by former minister and current MLC candidate Alapati Rajendra Prasad, who also exercised his voting right at the Government Women’s Polytechnic College in Gujjanagundla, Guntur. Naidu reiterated his dedication to fulfilling the commitments laid out in the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) manifesto during recent speeches, emphasizing welfare schemes and economic progress.
Naidu, addressing recent challenges, stated, "Pensions were increased from Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000, with disabled individuals receiving Rs 6,000, dialysis patients Rs 10,000, and bedridden individuals Rs 15,000," reinforcing his government's commitment to social welfare. He criticized the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) for their demands for opposition status and claimed, "Opposition status is determined by the people, not the ruling government."
Across the state, attention has focused on the voting process for the Krishna-Guntur Graduates' Constituency, where 25 candidates are contesting, and the Nalgonda-Warangal-Khammam Teachers' Constituency. This segment of the elections is equally competitive, with 19 candidates participating.
The simultaneous MLC elections in Telangana mark rigorous political activity as well. Voting began without major incidents reported. There are two Teachers constituencies, as well as one for Graduates, attracting considerable participation from voters and candidates alike. For the Karimnagar-Medak-Nizamabad-Adilabad Graduates Constituency, there are 56 candidates, and the Teachers Constituency features 15 candidates, making for a total of 90 candidates across the state’s elections.
Not only local leaders but party dynamics play heavily on the ground, with the BJP actively campaigning for their candidates, supported by senior leaders such as Union Coal Minister G. Kishan Reddy. Meanwhile, Congress Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy has also been pushing for votes among the electorate, solidifying his party's presence as they prepare for the vote count on March 3.
Polling stations across Andhra Pradesh have seen substantial preparations, including established polling booths and adequate security measures to facilitate smooth voting processes. Reports indicate voter turnout is steady as citizens engage with their electoral rights. The Chief Electoral Officer of Telangana, C. Sudharshan Reddy, reviewed these preparations to assure transparency and order on the day of the elections.
These elections not only critically influence local governance but also represent larger political strategies defining the future of state politics, reminding citizens of the power their votes can wield. Candidates are aware of the stakes involved, knowing each voter’s choice will help shape policies affecting education and welfare for years to come.
Voter participation supports the idea of enhanced representation, echoing broader demands for state accountability and development. The polls are expected to draw heightened interest not just from local observers but from parties state-wide, shaping conversations around public expectations for future governance and community engagement.
With counting set for March 3, both parties are gearing up for the outcome, which could redefine the political scene and signal voter sentiments across Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Whether Naidu's promises resonate with the electorate amid competitive opposition remains to be seen, setting the stage for the next chapter of governance and electoral integrity.