Hyderabad/New Delhi: Amid rampant speculation that a majority of Bharat Rashtra Samiti (BRS) MLAs, some of whom have already defected to the ruling Congress, are planning to merge the party with Congress, new rumors are gaining momentum. These rumors suggest that those remaining in BRS are contemplating a merger with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for a future win-win situation.
This proposal apparently has the endorsement of party founder president and former chief minister Kalvakuntla Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR) and his influential family members, who have wielded power for the past nine years.
Fueling this speculation are reports that negotiations have reached an advanced stage. According to unconfirmed sources, these discussions are becoming increasingly serious.
Insiders reveal that a prominent BRS leader recently met with a senior RSS official, who also holds a key position in the BJP, in Delhi to deliberate on the future of this “relationship.” The conversation reportedly centered around the prospects of merging the two parties or forming an alliance. The RSS leader assured that the futures of BRS MLAs and key leaders would be secure if a merger took place.
Despite the confirmation of these talks by the senior BRS leader, there is uncertainty regarding the stance of BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao on the merger proposal. This ambiguity has contributed to the swirling rumors and speculation.
Within the BJP, opinions on the merger are divided. At least three MPs are reportedly opposed to the idea, while two MPs and other influential leaders support it, leading to internal friction within the party’s state unit.
Publicly, BRS leaders have remained tight-lipped, though they acknowledge the rampant speculation on social media and in political circles. Many BRS insiders express strong opposition to a merger, arguing that it would harm their party while benefiting the BJP. Original BRS members are particularly against the merger or even an alliance, fearing it would erode the party’s base and serve only a few leaders’ interests.
As political circles buzz with rumors about the future of top BRS leaders, possibilities are being floated. There is speculation that KCR might be offered a Rajya Sabha seat and a position in the Union Cabinet, while former ministers KT Rama Rao or T Harish Rao could become the Leader of the Opposition in the State Assembly if the merger or alliance materializes.
Adding to the intrigue, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay recently stated that any BRS MLA wishing to join the BJP should resign from the Assembly and seek reelection. This comment is seen as a hint towards the ongoing discussions between the two parties.
As the situation evolves, the political landscape in Telangana remains charged with anticipation and uncertainty.
