Jana Sena Party chief and Andhra Pradesh deputy chief minister Pawan Kalyan’s decision to cancel his proposed campaign in the ongoing municipal elections in Telangana triggered intense political speculation.
Jana Sena candidates are contesting in several municipal wards across Telangana, and Pawan had initially planned a two-day campaign tour.
However, following meetings with senior BJP leaders—his party’s ally in the NDA—he abruptly cancelled the tour.
The development has generated debate within the BJP as well.
Reports suggest BJP leaders requested Pawan Kalyan to campaign in support of their candidates, seeking greater coordination between alliance partners.
Pawan reportedly agreed to extend support and campaign jointly, but the sudden cancellation has raised questions about strategy and coordination.
Political observers point to the unusual situation in which both BJP and Jana Sena candidates are contesting in certain areas despite being NDA partners.
Analysts believe Pawan may have chosen to stay away from campaigning to avoid sending mixed political signals or creating confusion among voters.
There is also speculation that internal dissent within the Telangana BJP over joint campaigning with Pawan Kalyan—given his past statements perceived as critical of Telangana—may have contributed to the decision.
Congress leaders have reportedly been highlighting Pawan’s earlier remarks to counter BJP’s prospects, further complicating alliance politics.
The cancellation has left questions about Jana Sena’s political strategy in Telangana, especially as the party is contesting hundreds of seats independently while simultaneously supporting the BJP as an NDA partner.