Backward Classes leader and President of All India Backward Classes Welfare Association and MLA from L.B. Nagar constituency in the dissolved Assembly, R. Krishnaiah is being wooed by the Congress, sources said. Mr Krishnaiah, who enjoys enormous goodwill among the BC sections, whether students or employees given his track record of agitations for BC welfare, is said to be keen too.

His recent interaction with Rahul Gandhi during his visit to Telangana where he also travelled by Mr Gandhi in the same bus gave room for speculation. Mr Gandhi, it is said, complimented Mr Krishnaiah for his work and the BC movement that was strong in both Telugu states. Sources said Mr Krishnaiah expressed his willingness to join the party as Mr Gandhi invited him but his plans were to join before the elections. Since the Assembly is now dissolved, his entry might be expedited.