Which way will Christian voters go in Andhra Pradesh?

Which way will the Christian minority votes go in the upcoming elections in Andhra Pradesh? This is a crucial question that is staring at all the major political parties which are gearing up for the polls. The Christian vote, according to official estimates, constitute around 10 per cent of the total voters and tend to vote as per the dictates of the Church establishment.

It is another matter that majority of the Christians, though strongly committed, do not enroll themselves as Christians in the government records. They claim Dalit status, but practice Christianity at homes and churches. These voters form a strong vote back that can tilt the scales in many districts of Andhra Pradesh.

Traditionally, these voters had stayed with the Congress and later shifted to the YSRCP. However, this time around, discordant notes are emerging from the community. Many are said to be upset with YS Jagan Mohan Reddy. Several church leaders recently met under the leadership of Brother Anil, who is the husband of YS Sharmila and decided not to vote for the YSRCP. They are also unhappy that at least 27 Dalit-based schemes that would benefit the Christians have been put on the backburner ever since Jagan came to power.

Sources say that the Christian community leadership is divided between the YSRCP, TDP and the Congress Party. The Congress has already gone on an overdrive to seek the support of the Christian religious leaders. Even if 10 per cent of the Christians switch their loyalties, there could be serious trouble for YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, say political watchers. As of now, Brother Anil is said to be contacting the Christian leaders in a very systematic way.