SRIKAKULAM: The problem of rebels seems to plague both the Congress and the TDP in the municipal elections. Coaxing and luring, threatening and reasoning are some of the ploys used by both the Congress and TDP leaders to ensure withdrawal of candidates who threatened to remain in the field if the party refused ticket.

It may be recalled that the Congress had not announced the names of its candidates officially. The TDP had also not announced the names of some of its candidates. The result was that more than one candidate had filed nomination as the party candidate. For example, there were some 104 TDP candidates for the 36 wards in the Srikakulam Municipality. The TDP had announced candidates for some 26 wards. Similarly, 73 candidates filed nomination as Congress candidates in the Srikakulam Municipality, hoping to get the party's endorsement. "Anything can happen in our party," said one of the aspirants for the party ticket to the sixth ward.

Trouble likely

Barring dummy candidates, party leaders might find it difficult to ensure withdrawal of those other than official candidates. Similar is the case in the Amadalalvalasa and Itchapuram municipalities where the Congress has 68 and 62 candidates and the TDP has 50 and 64 candidates for the 23 wards each, respectively. Warnings of disciplinary action by the senior leaders seem to have little impact on some of the candidates who are determined to be in the field, come what may.

The Congress had sent its list of candidates to the Pradesh Congress Committee, which has to put the stamp of approval. For the TDP, it is the question of choosing one from among the equally strong candidates.

Today, the process of screening is being completed. The last date for withdrawal is September 9, when a clear picture of official candidates as also rebel candidates will emerge.

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