With two time MLA Chengala Venkat Rao switching sides, more than TD cadre in Payakaraopeta, it is YSR Congress activists who are worried.
Though it is a blow to the TD in the district which is gearing up for a series of agitations over various issues like demanding a port at Nakakpalli, protes-ting the diversion of Yelu-ru water to East Godavari district, YSRC cadres too are now in a dilemma.
They are confused as to whom they should rally behind now — Mr Venkat Rao, who had always criticised their leaders and unsuccessfully contested the polls twice — or sitting MLA G. Babu Rao. Analysts opine that Mr Venkat Rao's entry into the YSRC will expose the fissures in the party and in all likelihood, brew more trouble for it.
According to reports Mr Venkat Rao's move was carefully orchestrated by YSRC leader Konatala Ramakrishna who is said to be uneasy ever since Mr Babu Rao won the bypolls with a margin of more than 14,000 votes. It is only to checkmate Mr Babu Rao that Mr Ramakrishna is said to have played a crucial role in bringing in Mr Venkat Rao, who is known for his aggressive attitude.
Adding fuel to the fire, Mr Venkat Rao, while announcing his decision to quit the TD, told reporters that he was assured of a party ticket by the YSRC state leadership to contest from Payakaraopeta, leaving sitting MLA Babu Rao red-faced.