In anticipation of the upcoming simultaneous Legislative Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) has disclosed its first list of candidates, showcasing a collaboration with the Jana Sena Party (JSP). The state, with a total of 175 seats, is gearing up for a crucial political contest.
Led by former Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the TDP has announced 118 candidates in its first list, with 94 from Chandrababu Naidu’s party and the remaining 24 from JSP. Notably, out of the 94 candidates from TDP, 23 newcomers have been given the responsibility to contest, bringing a mix of experience and fresh perspectives to the electoral arena. The names of the 24 JSP candidates are expected to be revealed shortly.
The Election Commission, gearing up for the polls, aims to achieve more than 83 percent voter turnout in Andhra Pradesh. Chief Electoral Officer Mukesh Kumar Meena stated that various programs are underway to educate voters about the significance of casting their votes. In the 2019 polls, the state recorded an average polling percentage of 79.77, surpassing the national average of 69 percent.
As part of their efforts, an Election Commission team from New Delhi has arrived to assess the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) programs in Andhra Pradesh. Meena emphasized that extensive SVEEP initiatives are being implemented across districts to enlighten citizens about the election process and encourage active participation.
With the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha elections on the horizon, the political landscape in Andhra Pradesh is set for a dynamic and closely watched electoral battle.