AP Local Body Elections: Jana Sena to Contest Strongholds, Says Nadendla Manohar

Ahead of the upcoming local body elections in Andhra Pradesh, Jana Sena Party has begun formulating its electoral strategy with the twin objective of strengthening the NDA alliance and expanding its own grassroots presence, according to party PAC Chairman and State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar .

Speaking to the media at Chenchupeta in Tenali constituency on Friday, Manohar said it would be incorrect to assume that the electoral formula adopted during the 2024 general elections would be repeated in the local body polls. While Jana Sena had made significant political sacrifices to ensure the alliance's victory in 2024, local elections would be approached based on ground realities and the party's organisational strength in each region, he said.

Manohar recalled that Jana Sena had stepped back in several constituencies during the 2024 elections with the larger goal of strengthening the NDA and preventing the anti-government vote from splitting . The party, he said, stood firmly behind the decisions taken by party president Pawan Kalyan in the interest of the alliance and the people of the state. However, linking those circumstances directly to the forthcoming local body elections would not reflect the current political situation, he added.

The minister asserted that Jana Sena would certainly contest in areas where it has a strong support base. He said the party leadership is committed to providing opportunities to its leaders, cadre, Jana Sainiks and women activists, while continuing to maintain cordial relations and coordination with alliance partners.

Manohar said the party was fully aware of the aspirations, concerns and expectations of workers at the grassroots level. Candidate selection and campaign strategies would be finalised after a comprehensive assessment of local conditions and the party's strengths and weaknesses in different regions.

Referring to a recent coordination meeting of NDA partners, he said discussions focused on addressing minor shortcomings and improving alliance coordination. The coalition, he noted, intends to give greater representation to youth and women while ensuring recognition for dedicated grassroots workers.

To further strengthen coordination, special committees are being constituted at both the district and parliamentary constituency levels. Manohar said decisions on candidate selection and seat-sharing for the local body elections would be taken through consultations among alliance partners, with all parties working together to secure an NDA victory.