YSRCP mastered the art of electioneering. The Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YCP) has navigated the complex landscape of Andhra Pradesh politics with remarkable acumen. In the 2019 elections, the party achieved significant success, a stark contrast to its earlier performance in 2014, where it won 67 seats primarily through propaganda efforts but faltered in effective electioneering. Learning from past mistakes, YCP refined its strategies and overcame the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in 2019. As the 2024 elections approach, YCP's preparations reflect its commitment to maintaining its edge.
YCP has implemented innovative trends in poll management, ensuring voter turnout and support. The party has successfully mobilized its base, particularly in rural areas, where it enjoys substantial favor. This mobilization is evident in the high polling percentages: 81.86% overall in the state, with rural areas at 82.32% compared to 62.62% in urban areas. YCP's strategy appears focused on these rural regions, which account for 117 of the 175 assembly seats in Andhra Pradesh.
One of the key components of YCP's success has been its volunteer system. Recognizing the limitations of volunteers during election periods, YCP introduced household managers, assigning them to every fifty families. This dual system has been pivotal, with household managers and volunteers working together to secure votes. Even after some volunteers resigned, the party effectively utilized them in villages to bolster its campaign efforts.
The party's emphasis on ensuring votes are cast and counted is evident. YCP has taken meticulous precautions to guarantee that its supporters reach polling booths and that their votes are accurately reflected in the electronic voting machines (EVMs). This systematic approach has reportedly paid off, with YCP managing to harvest votes from the very first hour of polling.
Moreover, YCP's campaign has resonated strongly with women and the elderly in rural areas. The message that government schemes might be withdrawn if YCP is not supported, combined with the goodwill generated by volunteers, has driven these demographics to the polls in significant numbers.
YCP leaders remain confident, claiming that these strategic moves will secure their return to power. The final outcome will be revealed on result day, determining whether their meticulous planning and execution have indeed harvested the votes necessary for victory.