AP bypolls: 20 candidates left as deadline ends

HYDERABAD, May 20: A total of 20 candidates were left in the fray for the June three by-elections to the four assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh after the deadline for withdrawal of nominations ended today.

The ruling Telugu Desam Party and main Opposition Congress are contesting all the seats — Mummidivaram (SC), Atilli, Andole (SC) and Metpalli, while other political parties, BJP, CPM and NTR-TDP are contesting for Metpally, Atilli and Andole respectively.

The by-polls assume significance since they serve as a prelude to the political parties preparation for the assembly polls due next year end.

This is the first time that TDP is going alone for the by-elections as its left allies CPI and CPM severed their ties after the TDP voted in favour of the BJP at the Centre.