Venkata Ramana Reddy: BJP's dark horse emerges as 'double giant killer' overthrowing KCR and Revanth Reddy

HYDERABAD: In a significant upset, Kattipally Venkata Ramana Reddy, a lesser-known figure outside Kamareddy constituency secured a remarkable victory in the Telangana assembly elections. The Bharatiya Janata Party's candidate triumphed over two prominent leaders—Chief Minister K Chandrasekhara Rao and Congress's Chief Ministerial candidate Revanth Reddy.

Venkata Ramana Reddy clinched victory in a fiercely contested battle surpassing KC Chandrasekhara Rao by a margin of 6741 votes. Meanwhile, Congress's Revanth Reddy stood relegated to the third position.

A note shared by BJP IT cell chief Amit Malaviya hailed Venkata Ramana Reddy as a 'double giant killer.' This victory has propelled the BJP's prospects with indications suggesting a strong showing in both the Lok Sabha elections and the potential to seize power in Telangana in the upcoming term.

Prior to his political foray, Venkata Ramana Reddy was a recognized businessman in Telangana, boasting current assets worth Rs 49.7 crore. He entered politics in 2004 through the Congress party and held various positions notably as a member and chairman of Zilla Parishad.

Having joined the BJP in 2018, Venkata Ramana Reddy's ascent to victory in Kamareddy constituency followed a dedicated focus on addressing community needs rather than making empty promises. His personal oversight in constructing multiple community halls and spearheading development projects such as securing land for an outer ring road and industrial area, earned him widespread support.

His active involvement in safeguarding farmers' rights against the proposed takeover under the draft master plan of Kamareddy Town further bolstered his popularity among villagers. This led to the government's decision to scrap the contentious master plan ahead of the elections.

Despite his defeat in Kamareddy, both KCR and Revanth Reddy emerged victorious from other constituencies. KCR secured victory in Gajvel by a substantial margin of over 32,000 votes while Revanth Reddy won from Kodankal constituency with a majority of 32,532 votes.

Venkata Ramana Reddy's unexpected win has reshaped the political landscape signifying a remarkable rise for this.