Hyderabad, Jan 24: In a move that is set to shake up the political landscape of Telangana, Telangana Jagruthi, the cultural organization led by Kalvakuntla Kavitha, has signaled its intention to contest the upcoming municipal elections. This development follows months of speculation after Kavitha’s suspension from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) in late 2025 and her subsequent resignation as a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC).
The organization, which played a pivotal role in the Telangana statehood movement through cultural mobilization, is now transitioning into a political force. While a formal party name is yet to be finalized, insiders suggest that Jagruthi-backed candidates will contest as independents or under a new banner, focusing on local governance and “restoring the original aspirations” of the Telangana movement.
This marks the first time Telangana Jagruthi will formally field candidates in a representative election. Reports indicate that Kavitha has been in discussions with renowned election strategist Prashant Kishor to draft a roadmap for the organization’s political evolution. The group plans to prioritize urban local bodies (ULBs) where they have a strong grassroots presence, particularly in the North Telangana districts. In several segments, Jagruthi is expected to extend support to independent candidates who align with their “Telangana Pride” ideology.
The decision comes at a time when the ruling Congress and the opposition BRS are already in a heated battle for control of the state’s 117 municipalities and 6 municipal corporations. By entering the fray, Telangana Jagruthi aims to position itself as a “third alternative,” targeting voters who are disillusioned with the traditional major parties.
“The current political climate requires a voice that truly represents the culture and the core needs of the people, not just power politics,” a senior Jagruthi representative stated. “Our entry into the municipal elections is just the first step toward a larger political journey.”
The Telangana State Election Commission is expected to release the formal notification for the municipal polls in late January 2026, with voting likely to take place in February 2026. Political analysts believe that Jagruthi’s performance in these local polls will serve as a crucial “litmus test” for Kavitha’s planned assembly bid in the next general election.
