Since 2013, the AIMIM has been trying to expand its base outside Hyderabad by contesting Assembly elections, but without much success. In the 2020 Bihar Assembly elections, the party won five seats. It is amid this poor showing that Mr. Owaisi has challenged the ruling party in Telangana. This may upset the BRS’s apple cart and deal a body blow to the Congress, which banks on securing the votes of minorities. Its recent decision could have an impact on the BRS’s performance since minority votes, which were going to the ruling party, could be split.

Source: The Hindu February 14, 2023 05:17 UTC