Two and half months ago, the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS) enjoyed a clear edge over the Congress party in rural Telangana as per the survey of former MP Lagadapati Rajagopal. At that time, Rajagopal also predicted TRS likely to get 90 assembly seats in the 119-seat Assembly. But the latest survey of Lagadapati gave a picture of rapid decline in fortunes of the ruling TRS as it predicted victory of nearly 10 independents or rebel candidates.

Lagadapati indicated the mood among voters saying they were not going to be influenced by inducements or bribes of any sort mostly which is why so many independents are standing a chance in this election. Then the question arises why so much change came about in just a matter of two and half months that KCR is facing rough weather now in the face of a possible anti-incumbency factor.

Poll analysts put forward the theory though the TRS government has taken all precautions to safeguard its winning prospects, the dominance of one single family that is of KCR’s has become the party’s disadvantage now. The over confidence of KCR family in occupying all the space in the party’s main activities has triggered silent resentment which may turn against and fuel the anti-incumbency factor.

It is openly criticised by rivals that separate Telangana seemed to have been formed to benefit KCR, his son KTR, his daughter Kavitha and his nephew T. Harish Rao. With these four members occupying important positions, there is no scope for other leaders to grow and assert their image.

G.Ravikira