Padayatra Season For Parties In AP

Padayatras seem to be having a magic touch to the politicians in Andhra Pradesh.

Ever since the success of YSR's padayatra in 2003, and Congress' subsequent return to power, the political canvas of the state has been painted with padayatras in vibrant colours.

While N Chandrababau Naidu has hit the road with the slogan "Vasthunna Mee Kosam", and is on the last leg of the Telangana tour, Sharmila has had a leg injury and had to give a break to her padayatra. While the TRS touched upon Palle Bata, MIM also thought of a similar exercise and wants to expand its base beyond twin cities.

The BJP had done its part with the Telangana tour by G Kishan Reddy, and the Mahboobnagar assembly seat was the reward, for whatever reasons.

It is not just the opposition parties, but even the ruling Congress is on the track, or perhaps, the trek. Chief Minister N Kiran Kumar Reddy had been on a mass-contact programme through Indiramma Bata, and has been receiving bouquets and brickbats. But his motive is to increase his visibility, and he has been successful in that objective.

Revenue Minister Raghuveera Reddy also went on a tour for a limited purpose and succeeded.

Now comes the biggest surprise of all.

PCC President Botsa Satyanrayana will also be embarking on a padayatra in the New Year. The state Congress leader has every right to tour the state, but knowing the differences he has with the Chief Minister, it remains to be seen what his intentions really are. (INN)