Kodandaram Ashamed To Be Associated With Chandrababu In Telangana People’s Front
Kommineni Srinivasa Rao
With the recent developments in Telangana's political arena, the alliance partners of the Congress-led people's front, especially TJS Chief Prof Kodandaram, seem to be uncomfortable. Kodandaram, who played an important role as a Joint Action Committee (JAC) Chairman in the Telangana agitation, appears to have lost his feet as a member of the alliance.
When Kodandaram flouted his own party earlier in the year, he announced that the party would field its contestants in all constituencies. He was firm on contesting the elections alone. But, as time passed, Kodandaram had to join hands with the Congress as well as with TDP Chief Chandrababu Naidu. Yet, it appears he did not get the desired results--TJS was allotted only eight seats against its demand for at least 12 seats.
In the eight seats that were allotted to the party, the Congress decided to have a friendly contest with the TJS candidates in some of the constituencies. In this scenario, Kodandaram himself could not get a ticket to contest. After preparing to contest from the Jangaon constituency, the Congress was disrespectful in withdrawing the seat from him. The TRS leaders termed Kodandaram as a curry leaf in a curry.
It appears that Kodandaram has a sole option to continue as the alliance's Convenor and to hope for a cabinet rank post if the alliance forms government. Although the people's front was once favourite to win the elections, its bad reputation over Chandrababu's funding, infighting and the disputes over tickets have marred its chances.
In this context, there is no clarity over Kodandaram's future. On the other side, it is evident as to how difficult it is turning out to be for him to cope up with the partnership with TDP. Asked about his rapport with the TDP, Kodandaram said he discussed certain issues with the Telangana TDP leaders but he did not have a word with Chandrababu.
Hence, it can be inferred from Kodandaram's words that Chandrababu must be kept away from the Telangana people. The CPI, on the other side, is dissatisfied with just three seats it was allotted by the alliance.
On the whole, it must be said that the people's front fell behind in the first stage of the election campaign. In addition, the trust issues within the alliance partners could affect its chances in winning the people's trust.
