Azharuddin, Vijayashanti in TPCC chief race

Psephologist and political strategist Prashant Kishore is stated to have suggested to AICC vice-president Rahul Gandhi that the TPCC chief should either be film star and political fighter Vijayashanti or famous cricketer Mohammad Azharuddin who could attract the minorities vote.

While party leaders are clamouring against the present chief Uttam Kumar Reddy, those in the fray for the PCC president post include Mohammed Shabbir Ali, DK Aruna and Dr. J. Geeta Reddy.

Vijayashanti has glamour and fighting spirit on her side. Many party leaders had told the high command that these qualities of hers would be useful to go into the people like the old days. On the other side is the minority vote that the Congress had lost. Mohammed Azharuddin alone can turn the tide round because he remains an idol in the people's hearts. Also he can attract youth, Prashant Kishore has reportedly suggested to Rahul Gandhi.

If either the star or cricketer is chosen, the party would benefit a great deal, Congress leaders are understood to have told the leadership.