HYDERABAD: The upcoming MLC elections in Telangana have sparked intense political debate, as uncertainty looms over whether all five seats will be filled unopposed or if a contest will take place. The defection of ten BRS MLAs to Congress has added further complexity to the situation.
The Election Commission has issued a notification for five MLC seats under the MLA quota. Congress is expected to win three seats easily, while BRS is assured of one seat. However, the fifth seat has become a point of contention, with AIMIM and CPI both vying for it.
For a candidate to win, 20 MLAs’ support is required. Congress and CPI together have 66 MLAs, while BRS has 38 MLAs. BJP holds 8 MLAs, and AIMIM has 7 MLAs. Congress’ strength secures three seats, while BRS’ numbers guarantee one. The real battle lies for the fifth seat.
If BRS fields two candidates, an election becomes inevitable. The party will issue a whip to ensure all 38 MLAs vote for its candidates, and any defection could lead to disqualification. BRS has already approached the Supreme Court regarding the disqualification of defected MLAs, which could impact the election.
With both sides strategizing intensely, the MLC elections in Telangana are shaping up to be a major political showdown.