Though the deadline for the filing of nominations is over, the TDP has not yet decided its candidates in Andhra Pradesh. The party is very busy in deciding its candidates. The only criteria for TDP candidature, if sources are to be believed, is whether the candidate can spend up to Rs 1 crore for the elections. So, the top bosses are directly asking the ticket aspirants whether they have the ‘resources’ to fight the elections. What more? This sordid drama is taking place right inside the party offices in the districts.
The candidates have to submit their B forms by 3 PM March 16. Hence the candidates are frantically making rounds of the district party offices. But, the party state leadership is asking the leaders about their financial capacity. The TDP, it appears, feels that it can win the elections only by using the money power. Hence, it wants only those with money power to fight the elections. The party feels that the candidates fighting for municipal and panchayat wards have to splurge and win votes. The final list of candidates would be announced by Monday.
If TDP insiders are to be believed, at least four candidates in Vizag alone have backed off due to financial reasons. They have said that they are in no position to spend such huge amounts. Meanwhile, the emergence of Gandi Babji as the TDP civic chief nominee is said to have put off several local leaders. Some candidates backed off on hearing about Babji’s candidature.