Why Pulivendula is Andhra's Amethi

A four-lane, well-lit road takes you to Pulivendula, Y S Rajasekhara Reddy's constituency. In the last five years, the Chief Minister has transformed the look of Pulivendula in his home district Kadapa.

Parks, recreational centres, educational institutions and modern civic amenities have made this constituency a neighbour's envy and owners' pride.

Says Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy, YSR's son: "We brought Dalmia Cement, Brahmani Steels, India Cements to set up a cement bag factory here.''

YSR, fondly called the `tiger of Kadapa' by his admirers, has been derided by the Opposition for the last five years, by branding him as the "chief minister of Pulivendula".

For the people of Pulivendula, being in the tiger's den has had its blessings.

"He has started a college, constructed good roads. He has done some good work here," says one resident.

However, critics say in the name of development works, funds have been siphoned off.

Srikkanth Reddy of Telugu Desam says: "You tell me which project has been completed. Chitravati lift irrigation, no. Pedapalayam canal, no. Lingala canal, no. All these projects are in Pulivendula.''

YSR will contest the 2009 election, asking Pulivendula's voters to elect him as their MLA for the fifth time. With a promise to keep the goodies coming.