Vote counting continued for the Jubilee Hills by-election, which drew interest across Telangana. Congress candidate Naveen Yadav kept a steady lead from the first round. By the end of the eighth round, his majority crossed 22,000 votes. Only two rounds remained, and BJP candidate Lankala Deepak Reddy received nearly 9,100 votes. The gap surprised many as the BJP holds power at the Centre.
Deepak Reddy left the counting centre after the seventh round. Later, he spoke to the media and raised strong concerns. He said the election saw heavy money flow and misuse of power. He also claimed that the final three rounds would favour the BJP. Despite the low numbers, he expressed hope that he would secure his deposit.
The BJP candidate also criticised the ruling party for influencing the process. He stated that voters observed these issues throughout the campaign. He added that the party would review the entire polling pattern after the results.
Meanwhile, Congress supporters celebrated early trends. They expected a clear victory for Naveen Yadav as his lead kept increasing. With only a few rounds left, the by-election generated high political tension in Hyderabad. Both parties prepared for the final results and possible post-counting statements.
