Dalit activist Saripella Rajesh, also known as Mahasena Rajesh, withdrew his candidacy from the P Gannavaram constituency in Konaseema district after facing strong opposition for his controversial remarks against upper-caste individuals and alleged derogatory comments towards women. Initially declared as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) candidate, Rajesh’s past criticism of TDP leader Naidu and Pawan Kalyan, along with opposition from Brahmin associations, Vishwa Hindu Parishad, BJP, and Jana Sena Party workers, prompted his withdrawal. Formerly associated with the YSR Congress Party, Rajesh’s alignment with the TDP led to the resurgence of past criticisms, resulting in his decision to step down from the electoral race.