Hyderabad: The political temperature in the Jubilee Hills constituency has reached its peak as the by-election campaign enters its final phase. With just days left for polling, all major parties — Congress, BRS, and BJP — are intensifying efforts to woo key social groups, especially minorities, who are expected to play a decisive role in determining the outcome.

According to official estimates, nearly one lakh voters from minority communities reside in the constituency, concentrated mainly in four of its seven divisions. The ruling Congress, the opposition BRS, and the BJP are each vying for their support with targeted campaigns and promises of welfare continuity. Jubilee Hills, apart from the Old City, has the highest concentration of minority voters in Hyderabad, making it a politically sensitive and strategically crucial seat.

In the 2023 Assembly elections, Congress fielded former cricketer Azharuddin as its candidate. Despite a spirited campaign, he lost to BRS candidate Maganti Gopinath by a margin of 16,333 votes, largely due to a reported split in the minority vote. Since then, the political landscape has shifted. Azharuddin, now inducted into the Cabinet, is being projected by the Congress as proof of its commitment to minority representation. The BRS, however, accuses the Congress of political tokenism, alleging that Azharuddin’s elevation was a calculated move ahead of the by-election.

Meanwhile, the BJP is quietly working to consolidate votes among non-minority groups, while trying to make inroads into minority neighborhoods through outreach programs and local welfare promises. Party leaders claim that voters are frustrated with both Congress and BRS and are ready for a change.

Beyond minority outreach, social class dynamics are also shaping the campaign. Parties are hosting Vanabhojanams (community lunches) and organizing meetings under the banner of various caste-based welfare associations. Ministers and senior leaders are personally attending these events to reinforce social cohesion and secure the backing of influential community representatives.

Interestingly, the Congress has faced internal criticism from some quarters for allegedly neglecting a few backward classes during the campaign. According to local reports, such discontent could alter vote equations in key divisions.

Adding to the drama, a controversy erupted this week when BRS leaders accused Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Congress candidate Naveen Yadav of violating the Model Code of Conduct during a roadshow in Rahmatnagar by allegedly displaying deadly weapons. BRS Legal Cell members filed a complaint with the Election Commission, demanding immediate action against the Chief Minister. The Commission is yet to respond.

Political observers note that the Jubilee Hills by-election has become a prestige battle for all major parties. For Congress, it is about retaining dominance in Hyderabad; for BRS, it’s an opportunity to prove its grassroots strength after losing power; and for BJP, it’s a test of its urban strategy.

As polling day nears, all eyes remain on the minority vote bank — the factor that could tilt the scales decisively in this high-stakes contest.