Publication

This paper explores elections in Andhra Pradesh to understand the major issues and trends that emerged in Indian politics and participation in the post-independence period. The author outlines politics and elections in the region prior to the formation of Andhra Pradesh and examines the Congress Party's dominance (1957–1982) in state politics. He also discusses the emergence of the Telugu Desam Party, populism and the politics of confrontation. Finally, he explores the 2001 elections to the Panchayati Raj and concludes with a review of the broad trends, major factors and issues in Andhra Pradesh State politics and elections.