The Congress party’s decision to nominate Naveen Yadav as its candidate for the upcoming Jubilee Hills by-election has triggered strong dissent within the Telangana Congress unit. Senior leaders, particularly former MP Anjan Kumar Yadav, have expressed disappointment over the choice, claiming that seniority and loyalty were ignored. Party insiders reveal that the high command had considered multiple contenders, including K Vijayalaxmi and former Mayor Bonthu Rammohan, before finalizing Naveen Yadav’s name. The move is being seen as one that could potentially deepen existing factional divisions within the party ahead of a crucial electoral battle.

Anjan Kumar Yadav, known for his strong grassroots presence in Jubilee Hills, has been visibly upset with the decision. Reports suggest he had already begun campaigning in the constituency even before the official announcement, believing he stood a strong chance at securing the ticket. His reaction comes after he publicly questioned BC Welfare Minister Ponnam Prabhakar’s comments about restricting political opportunities within families, citing examples of senior Congress figures like Uttam Kumar Reddy and Deputy CM Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka. Party sources say his next steps — whether he chooses to cooperate or rebel — could significantly influence the Congress’s local campaign dynamics.

Meanwhile, several Congress members have voiced concerns about Naveen Yadav’s selection, pointing out that he joined the party only in November 2023 after leaving AIMIM. Unlike Anjan Kumar, a veteran loyalist, Naveen Yadav’s past electoral record shows multiple defeats in GHMC and Assembly elections as an AIMIM candidate. Critics argue that his political inexperience and limited support base could weaken the Congress’s standing in a key Hyderabad constituency. Despite the discontent, the leadership at Gandhi Bhavan remains hopeful that internal differences will be resolved before the campaign gains full momentum.