As the notification for biennial elections to Council of States (Rajya Sabha) has been issued, the aspirants for tickets have shot up in the Telugu Desam. The TD can win two of the six seats in the state.
Political uncertainty has forced some leaders to prefer a Rajya Sabha berth than test uncertain waters in the next Assembly and LS elections while demands from minorities especially from the Telangana region, BCs, SCs and other sections has put the TD brass in a fix.
Dr M.V. Mysoora Reddy, sitting Telugu Desam MP, who is retiring has thrown his hat again into the ring. He is seeking a second term.
Sources close to TD chief N. Chandrababu Naidu say the party chief is keen to have an articulate person to represent the party.
Dr Mysoora Reddy certainly fits the bill. Another close confidant of Mr Naidu, Mr Yanamala Ramakrishnudu prefers a RS seat. He is also a strong contender. TD leader T. Srinivas Yadav is openly canvassing for a seat.
Similarly, Mohd. Saleem, former Wakf Board chairman and a prominent fund raiser, has sought a ticket in the minority quota. Other minority candidates seeking a ticket are Zayed Ali Khan and Lal Jan Basha.
Other strong hopefuls from Telangana are Mr B. Narasimulu, Mr T. Devender Goud, Mr K. Yerrannaidu, Mr Varla Ramaiah, Mr Garkapati Mohan Rao, Mr C.M. Ramesh and Mr K. Ramamohan Rao.
Party leaders say that one seat would go to Seema Andhra and another to Telangana.