Until a few months ago, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was gaining ground as the second major party in Telangana. Their victories in the Dubbaka By-election and the GHMC Elections showcased their increasing influence. Bandi Sanjay, the face of the party, challenged KCR and engaged in extensive groundwork, including a Padayatra. However, things took a turn after the Karnataka Assembly elections where BJP faced corruption allegations and lost. This victory bolstered the Congress in Telangana.
Following this, BJP’s high command strategized to avoid splitting the anti-government vote, sacrificing their Telangana prospects. Bandi Sanjay was replaced by Kishan Reddy, causing a slowdown in the party’s activities. The election results shocked BJP as Congress emerged victorious, relegating the saffron party to only eight seats.
Although BJP won in other states recently, losing Telangana holds deeper implications. Congress now governs two affluent states, likely to contribute significantly to their 2024 General Elections campaign. This setback in Telangana might become BJP’s major regret as Congress gains momentum and financial support, potentially impacting the larger national political landscape in the upcoming elections.