Andhra Pradesh: A Pivotal Player in India's Electoral Arena

Introduction:
The 2019 Indian general elections, a significant democratic event, highlighted the strategic importance of various states, particularly Andhra Pradesh. Notable for its high voter turnout, Andhra Pradesh contributed significantly to the national vote share, with 4.3% of India's total voters and 5.15% of all polled votes.

Voter Turnout and Engagement:
In 2019, Andhra Pradesh showed remarkable voter engagement, reporting an 80% voting rate. This reflected a politically aware and active populace, signifying the state's dedication to democratic values and its critical role in shaping the national government. Since the 2004 elections, Andhra Pradesh has seen an average turnout of 70-74%, but the 80% turnout in 2019 marked a significant shift in the state's politics, leading to major upheavals and defied expectations.

Significance in National Politics:
Andhra Pradesh's influence in national politics extends beyond its voter turnout. With 25 Lok Sabha seats, it has considerable sway over the electoral outcomes and the formation of the central government. Previously, with 42 seats, it was a key player alongside West Bengal in determining the ruling party. Since independence, Congress dominated until N.T. Rama Rao founded the Telugu Desam Party. The state's support was crucial for the UPA's victories in 2004 and 2009. YS Rajasekhar Reddy's leadership was a significant factor, and his untimely death marked a turning point in the state's politics.

YS Rajasekhar Reddy's Exit:
Following YS Rajasekhar Reddy's untimely death, there was the immediate formation of Telangana state. Reddy was not only against the state's division but also opposed Reliance's complete control over the KG Basin. The central government had asked Andhra Pradesh to bid for KG Basin exploration in 1999. This was an opportunity missed by then Chief Minister, Chandrababu Naidu. YS Jagan, YS Sharmila, Chiranjeevi and Pawan Kalyan have repeatedly pointed to this missed opportunity. , Rajasekhar Reddy sought to rectify this, preparing to bid for new blocks just before his death.

PRP Merger with Congress:
The PRP emerged as a third force in Andhra Pradesh, winning 18 seats. However, its rapid merger into Congress post-Rajasekhar Reddy's death has been seen as an a missed opportunity to fill the political vacuum left by Congress and TDP.

Telangana State Creation:
The creation of Telangana reduced Andhra Pradesh's influence in national politics. The state went from having the fourth-largest representation in Parliament to ranking tenth. TDP Party traditionally supported the NDA Alliance but it made a shift in 2019 elections, aligning with Congress in Telangana and Karnataka. It however lost to YSRCP..

2024 Election:
The upcoming 2024 election in Andhra Pradesh is pivotal for both NDA and UPA, potentially influencing the BJP's majority in the center. Recent developments suggest TDP indirectly supporting Congress. UPA has regained a foothold in the south, winning Karnataka and Telangana. TDP's alliance with various parties, including Congress, in Andhra Pradesh aims to challenge the YSRCP government.

Enlightened Electorate:
The electorate in 2024 is more informed, thanks to widespread social media use and voter awareness campaigns. The state's decentralization efforts might lead to an even higher voter turnout, expected to be around 86%.

Development:
The YSRCP government's decentralization through Sachivalayams has reduced corruption and improved service delivery in health and education, garnering public goodwill. However, issues like weak urbanization and underdeveloped road infrastructure remain challenges.

Issues:
Post the split, Andhra Pradesh lost the economic hub of Hyderabad, affecting its software industry and employment opportunities. Road infrastructure and employment generation are areas needing improvement. The state's politics are also characterized by a welfare approach, with parties competing in offering freebies rather than focusing on development.

Vacuum:
The gap between political promises and their fulfillment has created a significant political vacuum in Andhra Pradesh. This vacuum, combined with low urban voter turnout, indicates a lack of faith in the political parties.TDP did not participate in Telangana elections. In the Andhra Pradesh elections, the Congress may return that favor to the TDP. BJP AP has been pushing for TDP Alliance. Janasena has been pushing for TDP Alliance. Left is seeking TDP Alliance. Parties with diverse beliefs are consolidating behind TDP which TDP sees as a strength but it could become TDP's biggest headache too managing the demands of so many parties for tickets. It is very clear that in a alliance, no party grows its vote share. It is imperative that atleast the large parties try to occupy the Vacuum in the state. 

Conclusion:
In a unique scenario, BJP and Congress seem open to alliances in Andhra Pradesh, potentially inviting a third party to fill the existing political vacuum. The opposition's strategy, focusing on welfare while criticizing the volunteer system, lacks differentiation and fails to address the public's desire for real development.